Name: Creamy Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb. dried elbow pasta; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup all purpose flour; 1 1/2 cups whole milk; 2 1/2 cups half and half; 4 cups shredded medium cheddar cheese (divided, measured after shredding); 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese (divided, measured after shredding); 1/2 Tbsp. salt; 1/2 tsp. black pepper; 1/4 tsp. paprika (smoked paprika preferred); Olive oil (for drizzling on pasta after cooking)

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If you’re looking to cozy up with a dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, this Creamy Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s that perfect balance of rich, cheesy goodness and a breadcrumb-free, golden baked topping that crisps just right to make every bite irresistibly comforting. Not only is it simple to prepare, but the layers of creamy cheddar and nutty Gruyere melted into perfectly cooked elbow pasta bring an unbeatable depth of flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering, this dish delivers all the cheesy satisfaction anyone could ever want.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a pot filled almost to the top with cooked elbow macaroni, which are pale yellow with a smooth texture. A thick, creamy, light beige cheese sauce is being poured over the macaroni from a container held above the pot. The sauce looks smooth and rich as it flows onto the pasta. The pot has a shiny metal inside and a black handle visible on the left side. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are straightforward but vital to nailing the luscious texture and incredible taste of this baked mac and cheese. Each plays a unique role, from the creamy dairy base building that silky sauce, to the combination of cheeses that create a rich and layered flavor profile.

1 lb. dried elbow pasta: Classic pasta shape that holds cheese sauce perfectly in every nook.
1/2 cup unsalted butter: Gives the roux that smooth, velvety start without adding extra saltiness.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour: The thickening hero that turns milk into a creamy cheese sauce.
1 1/2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and balance to the sauce’s richness.
2 1/2 cups half and half: A perfect blend of cream and milk for a luscious, smooth sauce (see chef tips below).
4 cups shredded medium cheddar cheese: A crowd-pleaser cheese with sharp flavor and smooth melt.
2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese: Brings a delicious nuttiness and gooey texture that elevates the dish.
1/2 Tbsp. salt: Essential to balance and enhance all other flavors.
1/2 tsp. black pepper: Adds gentle warmth and depth to the sauce.
1/4 tsp. paprika: Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky edge that makes this mac and cheese unforgettable.

How to Make Creamy Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 325 degrees F and greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. While you wait, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then cook the dried elbow pasta for just one minute less than the package says to ensure al dente perfection. After draining, toss the pasta with a little olive oil to keep it from sticking together as you move on to making that irresistibly creamy cheese sauce.

Step 2: Shred and Divide the Cheeses

While the water heats up, shred all your cheddar and Gruyere cheeses. Mixing them together and then dividing into three roughly equal piles helps manage layering: one third for the sauce, another for the middle pasta layer, and the last third for a beautifully bubbly, golden topping. This might seem like extra work, but trust me, it’s worth every shred for that perfectly melty bite.

Step 3: Make the Roux and Start the Cheese Sauce

Next, melt your butter over medium heat in a large saucepan. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk it vigorously until it resembles wet sand and the raw flour taste cooks off—about one minute. Slowly add about 2 cups of half and half, whisking constantly to avoid lumps and create a velvety smooth base. Then, pour in the remaining half and half and whole milk, continuing to whisk until your mixture is perfectly combined. This step is what transforms your sauce into a rich, creamy dream.

Step 4: Thicken and Flavor the Sauce

Keep the sauce on medium heat, whisking often, until it thickens to a consistency similar to a slightly thinned condensed soup. Remove it from heat and stir in the salt, pepper, paprika, and the first portion of cheese. Adding cheese in two batches here helps achieve that wonderfully smooth sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

In a large bowl, mix the drained elbow pasta with your cheese sauce until every piece is coated in that creamy, cheesy magic. Pour half the mixture into your prepared baking dish, scatter the middle layer of cheese over the top, and then pile on the rest of the pasta mixture. This layering method adds a delightful cheese stretch in every bite.

Step 6: Top and Bake to Perfection

Finally, sprinkle the last cheese portion on top and bake for about 15 minutes. You’re aiming for bubbly, lightly golden cheese that hints at the crispy edges to come. When that top layer starts to shimmer with melted goodness, you know it’s time to pull your Creamy Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe out of the oven and get ready to enjoy some serious comfort food.

How to Serve Creamy Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

A white bowl filled with creamy macaroni and cheese sitting on a white marbled surface with a purple cloth underneath. The macaroni is covered in a smooth, thick cheese sauce with a pale yellow color and some small browned spots. The texture looks soft and rich. There are small bits of black pepper sprinkled on top. A silver fork is placed next to the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While the mac and cheese is spectacular on its own, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and a fresh note that brightens the richness. For some crunch, try adding a handful of toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers right before serving—this elevates the texture and looks gorgeous on the plate.

Side Dishes

This dish is delightfully hearty, so lighter, fresh sides work beautifully alongside it. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess, and some roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans add color and balance. For a cozy meal, pair it with slow-cooked pork or BBQ chicken to round out your comfort feast.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow guests or add a fun twist, serve this mac and cheese in individual ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets. You can also mix in extras like cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms before baking for a gourmet touch that transforms this classic into a customized masterpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Creamy Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Cover your baking dish tightly with foil or transfer portions to airtight containers to maintain moisture and flavor without drying out.

Freezing

This recipe freezes very well if you want to prep ahead. After baking, let the mac and cheese cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic and aluminum foil or place in a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months, making it a perfect ready-to-bake comfort meal.

Reheating

When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm in an oven set to 325 degrees F until the cheese is bubbly again—about 20 minutes. You can also microwave single servings, but the oven method helps recapture that fresh-baked texture and melted cheese goodness.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While elbow pasta is traditional and holds the sauce well, shells, cavatappi, or penne also work wonderfully and can add a fun shape twist to your creamy baked mac and cheese.

What happens if I don’t have half and half?

If half and half isn’t on hand, you can substitute with a mixture of whole milk and heavy cream in equal parts to get a similar richness and creaminess in the sauce.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, containing no meat products. Just be sure your cheeses are free from animal rennet if you want to keep it fully vegetarian according to your standards.

How can I make it extra crispy on top?

To get that coveted crispy top layer, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter or some grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking. Broiling for the last 1-2 minutes also adds extra crunch but watch carefully so it doesn’t burn.

Why does the sauce sometimes turn grainy or separate?

This usually happens if the sauce gets too hot or if the cheese is added straight to high heat. Stirring cheese in off the heat and using medium heat to thicken avoids overheating the dairy and keeps the sauce perfectly smooth.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe is truly a comforting classic that you’ll want to have in your recipe rotation for all those moments craving pure, cheesy happiness. It’s approachable, endlessly satisfying, and customizable to suit your taste buds or occasion. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and dive into this warm, creamy bowl of homemade joy—you won’t regret it!