CREAMY BAKED MAC AND CHEESE

Step-by-Step Instructions (Creamy, Cheesy, Foolproof)

1. Cook the Pasta

• Boil macaroni in salted water until just al dente (1–2 minutes less than package directs).
• Drain, rinse with cold water to stop cooking, and set aside.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce

• In a large saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in flour; cook 1–2 minutes until golden (this is your roux).
• Gradually whisk in warm milk, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened (~5 mins).
• Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and cream cheese until melted and glossy.
• Stir in Dijon, garlic powder, cayenne, salt, and white pepper. Remove from heat.

3. Combine & Transfer

• In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta and cheese sauce until fully coated.
• Pour into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.

4. Add the Crispy Topping

• In a small bowl, mix panko, melted butter, Parmesan, and thyme/paprika.
• Sprinkle evenly over mac and cheese.

5. Bake to Golden Perfection

• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and topping is golden brown.
• Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving (sauce will thicken slightly).

Serving Suggestions

• 🥩 Classic pairing: With fried chicken, meatloaf, or BBQ ribs
• 🥗 Balanced plate: Alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette
• 🌶️ Spicy kick: Top with pickled jalapeños or hot honey
• 🍷 Wine pairing: Chardonnay or a light Pinot Noir

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Assemble ahead: Refrigerate unbaked casserole up to 24 hours. Add 5–10 mins to bake time.
• Leftovers: Keep in fridge up to 4 days. Reheat in oven or microwave (add splash of milk to restore creaminess).
• Freeze: Cool completely, freeze in airtight container up to 2 months. Thaw overnight, then bake at 350°F until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use GF pasta and GF flour (like King Arthur Measure for Measure).

Q: No cream cheese?
A: Substitute with extra Gruyère or ½ cup sour cream.

Q: Want it extra rich?
A: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream with the milk, or top with extra shredded cheese before baking.

Q: Can I add mix-ins?
A: Absolutely! Try:

• Crispy bacon or pancetta
• Steamed broccoli or peas
• Diced ham or lobster (for special occasions)

❤️ The Bottom Line

This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese isn’t just a side dish—it’s the star of the table. It’s what you make when you want to feed people well, impress guests, or simply treat yourself to a little luxury.

So boil that pasta, melt that cheese, and bake with confidence. Because the best comfort food isn’t complicated—it’s rich, golden, and made with love.