This Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese recipe is pure comfort food bliss! It started with a simple craving for creamy, cheesy mac, but quickly transformed into a masterpiece. This recipe elevates mac and cheese by combining the classic stovetop method with a final bake in the oven, creating that perfect crispy top layer while keeping the inside perfectly gooey and irresistible. This recipe will soon be a weeknight staple for your family.
This mac and cheese recipe is so simple to make, ready in under an hour, and the ingredient list consists of mainly pantry staples. From casual family dinners to holiday gatherings, this mac and cheese recipe will become your go-to whenever you need a crowd-pleasing dish. Get ready for cheesy goodness!
Why This Works
This Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is the perfect marriage of creamy and crispy. The oven-baked finish delivers a delightful crunch, contrasting beautifully with the rich, velvety cheese sauce within. This recipe calls for a special blend of cheeses to create that irresistible flavor and texture. Lastly, this recipe is incredibly versatile—it’s delicious on its own but also pairs perfectly with so many sides. A win-win!
Ingredient Overview
Here’s what you’ll need to gather to create this cheesy dream:
- Cheeses: 2 cups sharp cheddar, 2 cups Italian blend (Parmesan, Asiago, Romano), 1/2 block Velveeta, cubed
- Spices: 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tbsp Tony Chachere’s, 1 tbsp black pepper, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1/2 tbsp onion powder, 1/4 tbsp cayenne pepper
- Dairy & Eggs: 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1 can evaporated milk, 2 eggs
- Other: 1/2 stick butter, 16 ounces dry macaroni
From Start to Finish
Step 1: Create the Cheese Base
In a large pot, brown the butter over medium heat until it reaches a rich, golden color and releases a fragrant aroma. Reduce the heat to low and gently whisk in the evaporated milk and cubed Velveeta. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and the Velveeta is completely melted.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, heat the heavy cream in the microwave for approximately one minute. Once heated, immediately crack in the two eggs and whisk in all the spices listed above. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Combine and Thicken
With the cheese base still on low heat, slowly pour in the egg mixture, stirring continuously to prevent curdling. This creates a luscious, creamy base for the mac and cheese.
Step 4: Incorporate the Cheese
Add 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese and 2 cups of the Italian cheese blend into the pot. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is gloriously smooth. Reserve the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar for the topping.
Step 5: Add the Macaroni
Gently fold in the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated. This is where it starts to feel like real mac and cheese!
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese evenly over the top and add a dash of paprika for color. Cover the dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. For a final touch of crispiness, broil for the last 2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, carefully remove the mac and cheese from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set slightly and makes for perfect scoops.
Smart Tips & Tricks
For an even richer flavor, try using aged cheddar. See our guide on how to choose the best cheese for various dishes. A pinch of nutmeg adds a lovely warmth to the dish, and you can experiment with other spices to suit your taste. Don’t be afraid to add a bit more heavy cream if you prefer an extra creamy mac and cheese.
Make It Your Way
Feel free to explore some tasty twists! Spice lovers can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce. For a smoky kick, try incorporating bacon bits or diced jalapeños. If you’re following a vegetarian diet, ensure your cheeses are made with vegetable rennet. Browse our Dinner Recipe collection for more inspiration.
How to make mac and cheese simple at home?
This recipe simplifies homemade mac and cheese by using pantry staples and a straightforward method. The combination of stovetop cooking and oven baking ensures a creamy interior and a crispy top, perfect for a quick yet delicious weeknight meal.
What are the three best cheeses for mac and cheese baked?
While this recipe uses a blend, some excellent choices for baked mac and cheese are sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and fontina. They melt beautifully and create a rich flavor profile that complements the creamy sauce.
What are the ingredients needed for mac and cheese?
This recipe calls for a mix of cheeses (cheddar, Italian blend, Velveeta), spices (paprika, Tony Chachere’s, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne), dairy and eggs (heavy cream, evaporated milk, eggs), butter, and macaroni.
What are the 5 cheeses for mac and cheese?
A five-cheese mac and cheese could include cheddar, Monterey Jack, Gruyère, fontina, and Parmesan for a blend of sharp, creamy, and nutty flavors.
Pairs & Plates
This mac and cheese is fantastic as a standalone dish, but you can elevate it further by pairing it with your favorite sides. A crisp green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the mac, while roasted vegetables add a healthy and colorful touch. You can also try serving it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. For a delightful dessert after your savory meal, try our Chocolate lava cake.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! A simple yet satisfying recipe for Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese that will impress everyone. Don’t forget to share your cheesy creations with me! Find Paisley Recipes on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Want more comforting meals? Explore our collection of family-friendly recipes.
