Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe: A Ceramic Tray Delight

creamy baked mac and cheese recipe

(Velvety, cheesy, and utterly soul-satisfying.)

The ultimate comfort food, elevated with rich flavors and a golden crust.

Ingredients.

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni or other small pasta
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp dry mustard powder
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a subtle kick)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for topping)
  • 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)

How to Make This.

  1. Cook Pasta: Cook macaroni till firm, almost cooked. Drain well and set aside.
  2. Make Roux: While pasta cooks, melt 1/2 cup butter in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. It should be a pale golden color.
  3. Build Cheese Sauce: On low heat add in smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper (if using). On medium heat gradually whisk in the warm milk, a little at a time, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Reduce heat to low. Add 3 cups of shredded sharp cheddar and 1.5 cups of shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and all of the Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings.
  4. Combine & Assemble: Add the cooked and drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until evenly coated. Pour the macaroni mixture into a lightly greased large ceramic baking tray (approx. 9×13 inches).
  5. Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with 2 tbsp melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni.
  6. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup sharp cheddar and 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese over the breadcrumbs. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the mac and cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crispy. If desired, broil for the last 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness (watch carefully).
  7. Rest and Serve: Let the mac and cheese rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.

Tips.

  • Warm Milk: Using warm milk helps prevent lumps in your cheese sauce and ensures a smoother consistency.
  • Freshly Grated Cheese: Grate your own cheese from blocks for the best melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheeses often contain anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
  • Spice it Up: Don’t be shy with the spices! The smoked paprika, garlic, onion, and a touch of cayenne add incredible depth to this classic dish.

Why Make This?

This creamy baked mac and cheese is more than just a side dish; it’s a hearty, soulful meal that brings warmth and joy. Baking it in a ceramic tray ensures a beautifully even bake, a perfectly gooey interior, and that irresistible golden, crispy topping. It’s the ultimate comfort food, elevated with a blend of cheeses and a kick of soulful spices that make it truly unforgettable. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for serious comfort.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS.

  1. Serve this rich mac and cheese as a main course with a simple green salad or steamed collard greens.

  2. It also makes an excellent side dish for BBQ ribs, fried chicken, or pulled pork.

  3. A sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or green onions before serving adds a touch of freshness.

More Baking Recipes.

soft strawberry cake recipe: fresh strawberry cake for easy afternoons

Strawberry Cake.

apricot tea cake recipe: fruit loaf recipe

Earl Grey Apricot Loaf.

You Might Also Like.

  1. Bold, vibrant, and full of warmth, the Thai Red Curry with Sweet Potato Recipe is a plant-based dinner that genuinely excites. Perfect for any night of the week.
  2. For those who believe a kitchen can be poetry, our Poetcore Kitchen & Romantic Living guide is a love letter to slow, intentional, beautiful living.
  3. The right tools make all the difference. Head to our Kitchen Gadgets That Save Time guide to find the ones that make every recipe feel effortless.

“House Beautiful explores the art of beautiful, intentional home styling.”