Name: Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb large elbow macaroni; 1½ tbsp kosher salt (for boiling water); 6 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 4 cups whole milk, warmed; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded; 1 tsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp paprika; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

I absolutely adore this Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe because it perfectly balances creamy, cheesy goodness with a crunchy golden crust that just melts my heart. Whenever I make it, the aroma fills the kitchen and invites everyone to gather around the table eagerly. It’s one of those ultimate comfort foods that feel like a warm hug on a plate, and I’m so excited to share the recipe with you.

Why You'll Love This Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe

From the very first bite, I find this dish bursting with rich, gooey cheese flavor that’s just irresistible. The combination of sharp, melty cheeses and the velvety sauce creates a luxurious texture that’s hard to beat. I love how the baking process develops a slightly crispy top layer that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta beneath. It’s that mix of textures that always brings a smile to my face.

Another thing I truly appreciate about this recipe is how straightforward it is. Despite tasting so indulgent and complex, it comes together with simple ingredients you probably already have. I like how it doesn’t require any complicated techniques or fancy tools, making it perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering. When I’m pressed for time but still want to wow my loved ones, this recipe never fails.

This Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe is incredibly versatile. It’s my go-to for everything from casual dinners to holiday feasts because it complements so many dishes. I often serve it alongside roasted veggies or crispy fried chicken for a crowd-pleasing meal. Honestly, this recipe stands out because it hits every note I want: comfort, taste, and simplicity all rolled into one soul-satisfying dish.

Ingredients You'll Need

A rectangular black baking dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, showing one main layer of elbow pasta coated in smooth, pale yellow cheese sauce. The top layer is golden yellow melted cheese with a slightly browned, bubbly texture scattered unevenly across the surface. In one corner, a wooden spoon is scooping out a portion, lifting the creamy pasta mix from below the crispy cheese crust. The baking dish is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe are wonderfully simple yet essential to achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each one plays an important role—whether it’s the creamy butter that enriches the sauce or the hearty elbow macaroni that holds all that cheesy goodness.

TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

Large elbow macaroni: This classic pasta shape is perfect for capturing the sauce and giving you a satisfying bite every time.
Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the boiling water to ensure the pasta is flavorful from the inside out.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the sauce and helps create that velvety texture I love.

Directions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the kosher salt. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside.

Step 2: In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. This step is crucial because the butter will be the base for the cheese sauce that makes this dish the star it is.

Step 3: Slowly incorporate your cheese mixture (as per your favorite creamy mac & cheese sauce recipe) into the melted butter and residual pasta water. Stir constantly to ensure you get a silky smooth sauce without lumps.

Step 4: Add the cooked macaroni back into the pot and gently fold it into the cheese sauce until every piece is lovingly coated.

Step 5: Transfer the cheesy pasta into a buttered baking dish, spread it evenly, and top with an additional layer of cheese or breadcrumbs if you like for extra crunch.

Step 6: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes. The goal is to get a bubbly, golden-brown crust that signals it’s ready.

Step 7: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving to let the sauce thicken ever so slightly and settle beautifully.

Servings and Timing

This Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe makes about 6 hearty servings, perfect for a family dinner or small gathering. Prep time is roughly 15 minutes, mostly spent boiling pasta and preparing the sauce. Cooking time in the oven is about 25-30 minutes, so you can expect a total time of around 45 minutes from start to finish. I always recommend letting it rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to allow everything to firm up and for the flavors to fully meld.

How to Serve This Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a spoon lifting a serving of macaroni and cheese, with three visible layers. The bottom layer is a creamy, soft pasta that is golden-yellow and slightly browned in spots, showing a baked texture with smooth melted cheese. The middle layer, lifted by the spoon, is a thick, glossy cheese sauce covering curled elbow macaroni with a light yellow color and some black pepper specks. The top layer, which stretches from the spoon, is long, thin strands of melted cheese dripping down, bright yellow with a shiny, stretchy texture. The dish sits on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I like serving this dish piping hot straight from the oven, so you get that dreamy, melty cheese experience with every bite. It pairs beautifully with crisp green salads or some roasted Brussels sprouts to balance the richness. For me, adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or parsley on top brightens up the presentation and enhances the flavor.

When I’m making this for a larger group, I love plating individual portions in rustic ramekins for a charming, cozy feel. It also looks so inviting when garnished with a touch of paprika or a drizzle of truffle oil for a little indulgence. For drinks, I highly recommend a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon to cut through the creamy texture.

This Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe is a fantastic addition to family dinners, holiday spreads, or even weeknight meals when you crave something deeply satisfying. It holds up well on the table to stay warm, so no worries if guests are running a little late. Wherever and whenever you serve it, this dish will bring everyone around eagerly, ready for seconds!

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe is how easy it is to customize. If you want to switch things up, you can swap out the elbow macaroni for cavatappi or shell pasta, which also do a fantastic job at holding the sauce. Adding a bit of cooked bacon or caramelized onions can lend a smoky, sweet depth that’s simply addictive.

If you’re following dietary restrictions, I’ve experimented with gluten-free pasta blends that work well without sacrificing texture. For a vegan twist, try using plant-based butter and a blend of vegan cheeses; it won’t taste exactly the same but still hits the comforting notes. Flavor-wise, stirring in some spicy mustard or smoked paprika can add a beautiful kick that livens up the classic profile.

I’ve also played with different cooking methods like broiling the top for the last few minutes to get an extra crunchy crust or even making individual portions in muffin tins for adorable, portable servings. The flexibility in this recipe means you can get creative and make it your own without losing that comforting essence.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

I always store leftover mac & cheese in an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent drying out. It will keep well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. When I pack it away, I make sure the layers of pasta and sauce remain intact by not overfilling the container. This way, every scoop tastes just as creamy as when it was freshly baked.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully, which is a lifesaver when I want to prep meals ahead of time. I usually portion the leftovers into freezer-safe containers and label them with the date. Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve the texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheating is best done in the oven or toaster oven to help restore the crispy top and creamy texture underneath. I usually cover the dish loosely with foil and warm it at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, removing the foil near the end to re-crisp the surface. Avoid microwaving if you want to prevent a rubbery or overly dry texture, but if you must, add a splash of milk and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?

Absolutely! While classic cheddar is a go-to, I love blending cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack for more complexity. Just make sure the cheeses melt well to keep that creamy texture.

Is it okay to prepare this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the mac & cheese and refrigerate it before baking. Bake it a bit longer if chilled straight out of the fridge, and it still comes out delicious and bubbly.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely. Simply swap the elbow macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free flour if your cheese sauce calls for it. The dish remains just as comforting and tasty.

What’s the secret to the crispy topping?

The magic comes from a layer of extra cheese or breadcrumbs sprinkled on top before baking. Sometimes, I mix breadcrumbs with melted butter to get an unbeatable crunch that contrasts with the creamy interior.

How do I prevent the mac & cheese from being too dry?

Make sure to reserve some pasta water to add back into the sauce if it seems thick, and do not overbake. Letting the dish rest after baking also helps the sauce settle nicely without drying out.

Conclusion

I truly hope you give this Cheese Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe a try because it has become one of my favorite dishes to share with friends and family. It’s comfort food that feels homemade and special every time. Once you experience the gooey cheese, the tender pasta, and that irresistible baked crust, you’ll understand why this recipe means so much to me. Happy cooking and enjoy every delicious bite!