Comfort Food Baked Mac And Cheese

Name: Comfort Food Baked Mac And Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 2 cups milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon mustard powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love making baked mac and cheese because it brings back nostalgic memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. There’s something incredibly satisfying about the creamy, cheesy sauce mixed with perfectly cooked pasta, topped with a golden, crispy layer that adds texture and flavor. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to customize with different cheeses and toppings, making it a versatile comfort food that suits any occasion. Join me in creating a dish that warms the heart and soul!

Created by

Nicola Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:41:35.386Z

When I first tried making baked mac and cheese from scratch, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet rewarding the process was. My secret is to use a mix of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella, which provides a perfect balance of flavors and textures. I also love to sneak a bit of mustard powder into the cheese sauce; it enhances the flavor without making the dish taste like mustard!

After baking, I like to let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve up perfect portions. Each bite is a delightful experience, and the crispy topping takes it to another level. I promise, this recipe will quickly become a favorite!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, cheesy goodness that satisfies any craving
The crispy topping adds the perfect crunch
Easily customizable with your choice of add-ins

Perfecting the Cheese Sauce

One of the hallmarks of a great mac and cheese is the cheese sauce. Ensure you’re using good-quality cheeses; sharp cheddar adds a strong flavor, while mozzarella gives that fantastic gooey texture. When you’re melting the cheeses into the sauce, do so over low heat to prevent separating or burning, stirring continuously until the mixture is glossy and reaches a smooth consistency. This step is crucial; if overheated, you might end up with a grainy sauce.

For the perfect balance of flavor, adjusting the mustard powder can make a significant difference. You can also experiment with different types of mustards, such as Dijon or whole grain, to introduce subtle layers of taste. Additionally, if you're a fan of spice, a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce stirred in at this stage can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.

Choosing the Right Pasta

While elbow macaroni is classic, don’t hesitate to switch it up! Shells, cavatappi, or even whole grain pasta can work wonderfully in this dish. The shape of the pasta plays a significant role in how much cheese sauce it can hold. For instance, small shells tend to trap more sauce, creating delightful bites. Just ensure whatever shape you choose is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook during the baking process.

If you want to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the pasta and cheese sauce separately. Simply cool them before combining and refrigerating in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure everything is heated through properly. This makes it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or for serving guests.

Customizing Your Baked Mac and Cheese

The beauty of baked mac and cheese lies in its adaptability. Consider adding cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even steamed broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition. Just ensure any add-ins are fully cooked before mixing them with the pasta and cheese sauce to avoid undercooked components. For a flavor twist, try incorporating different cheeses such as Gruyère or smoked gouda for a rich depth.

To truly elevate the dish, play around with the breadcrumb topping. Mixing in some grated Parmesan or herbs like thyme or rosemary can add an aromatic quality that complements the richness of the cheese. If you prefer a spicier kick, crushed red pepper flakes can be a fantastic addition—a little goes a long way!

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 cups milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, whisking to combine. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking until smooth and thickened. Stir in the mustard powder and cheeses until melted and well combined.

Combine and Bake

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and cheese sauce until evenly coated. Transfer to a greased baking dish and sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or steamed broccoli for extra flavor and nutrition.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, consider using the oven rather than the microwave. Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover the baking dish with foil to retain moisture, and warm for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Uncovered for the last 5 minutes can help regain that crispy top layer.

For longer storage, you can freeze your baked mac and cheese. Prepare the dish but do not bake it. After assembly, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, ensuring no air can enter. It can last up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to bake from frozen, add an additional 30-45 minutes to the baking time at 350°F (175°C) to ensure it cooks thoroughly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cheese sauce turns out grainy, this usually indicates that the cheese was overheated. To fix this, gently reheating the sauce with a splash of milk while stirring can help smooth it out. For a grainy texture after baking, the sensory experience is still enjoyable, but ensuring low and slow cooking methods during sauce preparation can help prevent this in the future.

Should your mac and cheese lack flavor, it might be due to insufficient seasoning. Taste testing before transferring to the baking dish is vital. Don’t hesitate to modify the seasoning quantities listed, especially salt and pepper, as the cheeses can vary significantly in saltiness.

Serving Suggestions

Baked mac and cheese can stand alone as a hearty main dish, but it's also fantastic served as a side. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the creaminess. For a Southern twist, serve it alongside fried chicken or BBQ ribs for a comforting feast.

For a touch of elegance, consider garnishing the finished dish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also complements the cheesy flavor beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's cold.

→ What types of cheese work best?

Sharp cheddar and mozzarella are classic combinations, but you can also experiment with Gruyere, gouda, or pepper jack for a spicy kick.

→ How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat the mac and cheese in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also use a microwave, reheating in short intervals.

→ Can I freeze baked mac and cheese?

Absolutely! After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.