Macaroni and cheese is a comforting classic that never fails to satisfy. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just a cozy night in, this creamy baked macaroni and cheese is the ultimate indulgence. With its rich, velvety cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it strikes the perfect balance between creamy and cheesy. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. This version combines the creamy goodness of cheddar cheese with a subtle kick of cayenne pepper, taking the beloved comfort food to the next level. The best part? It’s easy to prepare and delivers a homemade taste that’s far superior to anything you’d get from a box. So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready for the most delicious macaroni and cheese you’ve ever made.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked macaroni and cheese recipe is not only incredibly creamy and cheesy, but it also comes together with minimal effort. The combination of two types of cheddar cheese — medium and extra sharp — creates a rich and flavorful sauce that coats every piece of pasta. The blend of spices, including cayenne pepper, adds a little extra zing without overwhelming the dish. The crispy, golden crust that forms during baking provides the perfect contrast to the creamy interior. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as a side dish, this macaroni and cheese will be the star of the meal. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize to your taste preferences with various add-ins or toppings.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

Elbow macaroni
Salt for boiling water

For the Cheese Sauce:

Butter
All-purpose flour
White pepper
Salt
Cayenne pepper
2% milk
Medium cheddar cheese, shredded
Extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Variations

Add-ins: Try adding cooked bacon bits, sautéed onions, or garlic to the cheese sauce for extra flavor.
Different Cheeses: You can experiment with other types of cheese like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella to change the flavor profile.
Breadcrumb Topping: For a crispy topping, sprinkle seasoned breadcrumbs over the macaroni before baking.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and keep it vegetarian while still enjoying a rich, creamy dish.
Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Once the water comes to a boil, add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, salt, white pepper, and cayenne pepper. Continue whisking for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly golden. This forms the roux for your cheese sauce.

Step 3: Add the Milk

Gradually pour in the 2% milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Once the sauce has thickened, add the shredded medium cheddar and extra sharp cheddar cheeses. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is well-coated with the sauce.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Ensure your roux is cooked properly to avoid a raw flour taste in the sauce.
For an extra creamy texture, use whole milk instead of 2% milk.
Don’t overcook the pasta before baking, as it will continue to cook in the cheese sauce.
For a smoother cheese sauce, grate the cheese yourself instead of using pre-shredded cheese.
Stir the sauce frequently while it thickens to prevent burning.

How to Serve

This creamy baked macaroni and cheese is a perfect side dish for a variety of meals. It pairs well with roasted chicken, steak, or even grilled vegetables. Serve it as a standalone dish for a satisfying vegetarian meal or add a protein like pulled pork or sausage for an even heartier option. If you’re serving it for a family dinner, it’s a great comfort food to accompany holiday meals or a casual weeknight gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency.

Freezing

You can freeze baked macaroni and cheese for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container.

Reheating

To reheat, bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave, adding a little milk to help restore the creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape, but elbow macaroni is the traditional choice for mac and cheese.

2. Can I make this recipe without cayenne pepper?

Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can leave out the cayenne pepper or substitute it with paprika.

3. Can I use skim milk instead of 2% milk?

Yes, but the sauce may be slightly less creamy. Whole milk is also an option if you want a richer taste.

4. Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can make the macaroni and cheese ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

5. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, though freshly shredded cheese tends to melt better and gives a smoother sauce.

6. Can I add vegetables to this mac and cheese?

Yes, you can mix in cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

7. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger baking dish.

8. Can I make this mac and cheese spicy?

Yes, you can add hot sauce, diced jalapeños, or extra cayenne pepper for a spicier version.

9. Can I bake it without the breadcrumbs?

Yes, the macaroni and cheese will still be delicious without a breadcrumb topping.

10. How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, let it simmer for a few extra minutes or add a bit more flour to the roux.

Conclusion

This creamy baked macaroni and cheese recipe is a timeless comfort food that will satisfy your cravings every time. With its rich cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and crispy golden topping, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you enjoy it on its own or as part of a larger meal, this dish is versatile and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Plus, it’s easily customizable, allowing you to adjust the flavors and ingredients to suit your tastes. Enjoy this delicious, cheesy dish and elevate your mac and cheese game with this mouthwatering recipe!