Comfort Food Baked Mac And Cheese

Name: Comfort Food Baked Mac And Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 2 cups milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Favorites

I absolutely love making Comfort Food Baked Mac And Cheese, especially on cozy nights when we crave something indulgent yet simple. There’s just something so satisfying about perfectly cooked pasta enveloped in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer. It’s a dish that brings back childhood memories and warms the heart. Whether you’re serving it as a side or making it the star of the meal, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a staple in your home.

Created by

Ottoline Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:35:35.011Z

When I first tried my hand at baking mac and cheese, I was determined to create a dish that was both creamy and crispy. After experimenting with different cheese blends, I found the perfect combination of sharp cheddar and cream cheese that resulted in a delightful richness. The addition of lightly toasted breadcrumbs brings an amazing crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.

This recipe has quickly become a crowd favorite in my household. I discovered that mixing in a handful of cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables can elevate it even further. It’s all about making it your own and catering it to your taste!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite
A golden, crunchy topping that adds texture
Easily customizable with your favorite ingredients

Choosing the Right Cheese

The success of your Comfort Food Baked Mac And Cheese relies heavily on the cheese you choose. Sharp cheddar is perfect for its tangy flavor, which complements the creamy smoothness of cream cheese. However, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for added depth. Combining different varieties can also enhance the complexity of the dish—try a mix of two or three cheeses for a gourmet twist.

Remember that cheese quality impacts the melting properties and end texture of your sauce. Avoid pre-grated cheese, as it often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Instead, grate your cheese fresh for a luscious, stringy texture that hugs every piece of pasta.

Mastering the Baking Process

Baking at the right temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect bubbling cheese and crunchy topping. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and allow it to preheat fully before placing your dish inside. This temperature is ideal for developing a golden crust while ensuring the inside remains creamy and hot. Keep an eye on it during the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent over-browning.

If you prefer a deeper crunch, consider broiling the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Just watch closely to avoid burnt breadcrumbs. You can also cover the dish with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking if you want the inside to heat evenly without overcooking the top.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for this comforting dish:

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1 cup cream cheese, softened
2 cups milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Salt to taste

Instructions

Here’s how to make this delicious baked mac and cheese:

Cook the Macaroni

In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens. Add the cream cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper, mixing until smooth. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese and remove from heat.

Combine and Bake

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Season with salt to taste. Pour into a greased baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or steamed broccoli to the cheese sauce before baking. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for various flavor profiles.

Make-Ahead Tips

Preparing your baked mac and cheese in advance can save you time during busy weeknights. After combining the macaroni and cheese sauce, transfer it to your baking dish and cover it tightly with foil. Store it in the refrigerator and bake it when needed, allowing an extra 10-15 minutes of bake time if chilled. This makes it an excellent option for gatherings, letting you enjoy stress-free hosting.

You can also freeze your unbaked mac and cheese for longer storage. Just ensure it's in an airtight container, and it will keep well for about 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before baking, and bake as directed. I often recommend doubling the recipe and freezing half for a no-hassle meal later on.

Perfect Pairings

Baked mac and cheese is wonderfully versatile as a side dish or the main attraction. For a balanced meal, pair it with a simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette or roasted vegetables to cut through the richness. A side of steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach can also add a pop of color and nutrition, enhancing the overall dining experience.

If you want to take your flavors up a notch, consider adding sautéed onions, cooked bacon, or roasted garlic to the cheese sauce for added dimension. This layered approach not only enhances taste but also introduces new textures, giving each bite something exciting to offer.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mac and cheese a day in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Just bake it the next day, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

→ What cheeses work best for mac and cheese?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but mixing in Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack can enhance the flavor and creaminess.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta and adjust the flour in the roux with a gluten-free alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.