Baked Mac and Cheese with Cheddar – Easy Creamy Recipe

If you haven’t tried this Mac and Cheese now its your chance. Make a 6 serving for $10. This baked mac and cheese with cheddar is creamy, rich, and topped with a perfectly golden crust. It’s an easy comfort food recipe made with simple ingredients and no complicated steps — perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

Creamy baked mac and cheese with golden breadcrumb topping in a dish

Baked Mac and Cheese with Cheddar – Easy Creamy Recipe

A delicious baked mac and cheese recipe loaded with cheddar, mozzarella, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. Quick and comforting!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 people
Calories 520 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g pasta elbow shape
  • olive oil
  • 4 cup cheddar
  • 2 cup mozarella
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 4 cup milk
  • 1/2 tbsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika

Crust

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • italian parsley

Instructions
 

  • Cook the pasta as per instructions, drain and mix with some olive oil. Set aside.
  • In a bowl mix the 2 cheeses together and set aside a 1/3 of it for the topping.
  • In a large pot melt the butter until golden.
  • Add and cook the flour for a few minutes.
  • Add half of the milk mix, bringing to a simmer.
  • Add the last 2 cups of milk, salt, pepper and paprika.
  • Cook until it thickens.
  • Turn off the heat and add the cheese.
  • Mix well then add the cooked pasta.
  • Mix to coat all the past.
  • Transfer to a large baking dish.
  • Top it with the reserve cheese. Set aside.
  • In a pan melt 1/2 cup of butter cook until golden.
  • Add the breadcrumbs and cook for a few minutes.
  • Add some chopped parsley.
  • Cover the cheese pasta with the breadcrumbs.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes 180C | 356F then broil for 2-3 minutes until golden.

Video

Keyword baked mac and cheese, cheesy baked pasta, comfort food pasta, creamy mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese recipe, Friday dinner idea

Why you’ll love this baked mac and cheese

– Creamy and smooth cheese sauce that doesn’t dry out
– Golden baked topping for the perfect texture contrast
– Simple ingredients you likely already have at home
– Easy to make ahead and bake when needed

Tips from the Kitchen

  • Cook the pasta just until al dente — it will continue cooking in the oven
  • Use freshly grated cheddar for a smoother sauce (pre-shredded can be grainy)
  • Don’t overbake, or the sauce may dry out
  • Let it rest for a few minutes before serving so it thickens properly

Give your own twist

  • Add crispy bacon or ham for extra flavour
  • Mix different cheeses like mozzarella or parmesan
  • Add a pinch of paprika or chili flakes for a bit of heat
  • Stir in broccoli or spinach for a veggie version

You asked, We answered.

Can I make baked mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, assemble everything and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.Yes, assemble everything and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

Can I freeze mac and cheese?

Yes, but for best texture freeze before baking and cook fresh.

Why is my cheese sauce grainy?

This usually happens when using pre-shredded cheese or overheating the sauce..

How do I keep mac and cheese creamy?

Avoid overbaking and use enough sauce to coat all the pasta well.

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