Comfort Creamy Mac & Cheese

Name: Comfort Creamy Mac & Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb elbow macaroni; 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 3 cups milk; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

I absolutely love a good mac and cheese, and this Comfort Creamy Mac & Cheese definitely hits the spot! With its velvety cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it's a hug in a bowl. We’ve perfected this recipe to ensure a creamy texture, which is a must for any mac and cheese lover. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this recipe is a classic that leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-03T20:29:27.834Z

One evening, while reminiscing about childhood meals, I decided to whip up a batch of mac and cheese that would bring back those cozy memories. I experimented with various cheeses and found that a mix of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella creates the perfect balance. The key to a great texture lies in adding a bit of pasta water to the cheese sauce, ensuring everything blends beautifully without being too dry.

As I served it to my family, the smiles on their faces reminded me of why this dish is a classic. The creamy, cheesy goodness was exactly what I aimed for, making it a delightful addition to our dinner table. Don't forget to top it with breadcrumbs for that extra crunch!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that coats every pasta piece evenly
Versatile; customize with your favorite cheese blend
Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in

      

Unlocking the Creaminess

Achieving that creamy, velvety texture is key to a perfect mac and cheese. The combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella creates a delightful melt with a flavor balance that delights. Sharp cheddar provides a robust flavor, while mozzarella adds a stretchy quality. If you're looking to experiment, try using Gruyère or fontina for a nutty twist, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.

When making the cheese sauce, remember to cook the flour and butter to form a roux, which thickens the sauce without clumping. You'll know it's ready when the mixture is bubbly and slightly darkens, but be careful not to let it brown too much. The goal is a smooth, glossy sauce that clings perfectly to your pasta.

Baking to Perfection

Baking the mac and cheese at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes creates an irresistible top layer that’s golden and slightly crispy. If you opt for breadcrumbs, consider mixing them with a bit of melted butter and Parmesan cheese for added flavor and crunch. To avoid a dry dish, ensure your pasta is well coated in the cheese sauce before baking.

For those who enjoy a little spice, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes into the cheese sauce or sprinkle some on top before baking. This variation adds warmth without overwhelming the classic flavor profile. Watch for those bubbling edges—that’s when you know it’s ready to come out of the oven!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for the best mac and cheese experience!

Ingredients

1 lb elbow macaroni
4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups milk
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your creamy delight.

Cook the Pasta

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

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer until it thickens. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, mixing well to coat.

Bake the Mac & Cheese

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs if desired, and bake for about 20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Enjoy your homemade creamy mac and cheese!

Pro Tips

For additional flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or steamed broccoli to the mix before baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need a gluten-free version of this Comfort Creamy Mac & Cheese, simply substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Most gluten-free varieties cook similarly, but be mindful of the cooking time as they may need slightly less time in boiling water to prevent mushiness.

For a lighter option, consider low-fat milk or even almond milk as a substitute for regular milk. Though the sauce may not be as rich, it can still deliver a deliciously creamy taste. Just remember to add an extra tablespoon of flour to help achieve the same thick consistency.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This mac and cheese is fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking stage and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply transfer it to the oven while preheating and give it an additional 5-10 minutes in the oven, as it may take a bit longer to heat through completely.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating can be tricky as pasta tends to dry out. Add a splash of milk when you microwave it to help revive that creamy texture, or reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with any gluten-free pasta of your choice.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the cheese sauce.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mac and cheese and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.

→ What cheeses work best together?

A mix of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella works wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with gruyère or pepper jack for added flavor.