Baked Creamy Mac & Cheese

A rich, creamy homemade macaroni and cheese with layers of sharp cheddar and a crispy golden breadcrumb topping.

Ingredients

• 1 stick (½ cup) butter

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 6 cups warm milk (add more if you prefer a creamier sauce)

• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese

• 6 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

  • 4 cups for the cheese sauce

  • 1 cup for the middle layer

  • 1 cup for the topping

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• Dash of ground nutmeg

• Salt, for pasta water (the water should taste like the ocean)

• 2 (16 oz) boxes elbow macaroni

• 1 cup breadcrumbs

• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

2. Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil (it should taste like the ocean). Cook the macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Make the roux. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until smooth.

4. Prepare the cheese sauce. Gradually whisk the warm milk into the roux until smooth. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce begins to thicken.

5. Add the cream cheese and stir until melted. Mix in:

   • 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese

   • 1 teaspoon onion powder

   • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

   • Dash of nutmeg

   Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth. If you'd like an even creamier consistency, add a little more warm milk.

6. Combine. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until every noodle is well coated.

7. Assemble the casserole.

   • Spread half of the macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish.

   • Sprinkle with 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese.

   • Add the remaining macaroni mixture.

   • Top with the remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese.

   • Sprinkle evenly with the breadcrumbs and finish with freshly ground black pepper.

8. Bake. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F for about 30 minutes, or until heated through.

9. Brown the topping. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown. For extra browning, broil for 1–3 minutes, watching carefully.

10. Let the mac and cheese rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Serves: 10–12

This recipe is perfect for holidays, potlucks, family dinners, or whenever you're craving classic comfort food.