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Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe – Easy Homemade with Gooey Cheese Pulls

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This creamy baked mac and cheese features a rich, silky cheese sauce, a blend of cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella for epic cheese pulls, and a crispy panko topping. It’s comfort food reimagined—quick, easy, and perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, plus extra for greasing
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 2 oz cream cheese, cubed and softened
  • 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp ground mustard powder (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/8 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
  • 1/2 cup extra shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella mix, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 6-7 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and fragrant.
  4. Gradually whisk in whole milk and evaporated milk. Continue whisking until smooth and slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Add cheddar, Gruyère, mozzarella, and cream cheese. Stir until melted and silky. If too thick, add a splash more milk.
  6. Season with salt, black pepper, mustard powder, garlic powder, and nutmeg. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Add drained macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir gently until all noodles are coated.
  8. Spread half the mac and cheese in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the extra shredded cheese over this layer. Add the remaining mac and cheese, then top with the rest of the cheese.
  9. Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top. Optionally, add a pinch of salt and pepper to the topping.
  10. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and edges are bubbling. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the last 10 minutes.
  11. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving for optimal gooey cheese pulls.

Notes

For best results, use freshly grated cheese for a smooth sauce and maximum gooeyness. Don’t overcook the pasta; it will finish baking in the oven. Layer cheese in the middle and on top for epic cheese pulls. Let the dish rest after baking for a creamy, set texture. Easily adapt for gluten-free or dairy-free diets by substituting pasta, flour, and cheese. Leftovers keep well and taste even richer the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, comfort food, cheese pulls, easy dinner, family recipe, potluck, casserole, kid-friendly

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