Comfort Creamy Mac & Cheese

Name: Comfort Creamy Mac & Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 2 cups milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Comfort Creamy Mac & Cheese, especially on chilly evenings when I crave something warm and satisfying. This dish combines just the right ingredients to create a deliciously creamy texture that clings to every noodle. Each bite is a nostalgic experience that takes me back to family dinners and cozy gatherings. The secret to achieving the ultimate creaminess is in the blend of cheeses I use, which creates a rich flavor that can't be beaten. You won't regret diving into this cheesy goodness!

Created by

Mia

Last updated on 2026-02-03T17:04:28.244Z

As I prepared this Comfort Creamy Mac & Cheese, I realized how versatile and forgiving this dish can be. I experimented with different cheese blends, landing on a combination of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella, which perfectly balanced flavor and texture. The mozzarella melts beautifully, giving you that stretchy, gooey feel that's hard to resist.

One crucial tip I found is to cook your pasta just shy of al dente. This ensures your macaroni absorbs the cheese sauce without becoming mushy by the end of baking. Trust me, this small step makes a big difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy cheese sauce that's utterly comforting
Customizable with your favorite add-ins like bacon or veggies
Simple ingredients that come together quickly

      

Mastering the Creamy Sauce

Creating the perfect cheese sauce for your Comfort Creamy Mac & Cheese is about balance and technique. As you whisk the flour and melted butter, aim for a smooth paste that’s free of lumps. When gradually adding the milk, keep the heat at medium to avoid scorching; the mixture should start to thicken after about 5-7 minutes. Look for a consistency that coats the back of a spoon—a sure sign you're on the right path.

Choosing the right cheese blend is crucial for achieving that luxurious creaminess. Sharp cheddar brings a robust flavor that pairs perfectly with the mild, stretchy mozzarella. If you're looking to elevate the dish further, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or Gruyère for added depth. Just remember, the key is to mix the cheeses in low heat until melted—this ensures a velvety sauce that clings beautifully to every macaroni.

Baking to Golden Perfection

Once your mac & cheese is in the oven, keep an eye on it as it bakes. The top should turn golden brown and bubbly within about 15 minutes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). If you prefer a crispier topping, broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes—just don’t walk away during this step, as things can go from perfectly golden to burnt very quickly.

For added flavor, consider mixing herbs such as parsley or Italian seasoning into the breadcrumb topping before baking. This not only enhances the flavor profile but also gives a delightful crunch to each bite. Remember, while breadcrumbs are optional, they do provide a pleasing contrast to the creamy texture of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before starting your recipe:

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 cups milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Once you have everything ready, it's time to dive in!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Comfort Creamy Mac & Cheese:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a paste. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly until thickened. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper.

Combine with Cheese

Reduce heat to low and add in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, mixing well to coat all noodles with the creamy goodness.

Bake the Mac & Cheese

Transfer the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some chopped cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables like spinach or peas in the mac and cheese mixture before baking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning to enjoy this Comfort Creamy Mac & Cheese later, it can be prepared a day in advance. Simply follow the steps up to the baking stage, then cover your dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes to account for the cold starting temperature.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a covered skillet on low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in increments of 30 seconds until heated through. If the dish appears dry, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Customization Ideas

One of the best aspects of this mac & cheese recipe is its versatility. You can incorporate various add-ins to tailor it to your taste. For a protein boost, consider adding crispy bacon, cooked chicken, or even some sautéed shrimp right before combining with the sauce. For a veggie-packed version, mix in steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms.

Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations as well. A sprinkle of Parmesan can add a delightful nutty flavor, or you might try pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just remember that each cheese melts differently—some may require a bit more patience to create that perfect creamy texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use any type of pasta?

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

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ Is it possible to freeze leftover mac and cheese?

Yes, it freezes well. Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Consider adding spices like paprika or mustard powder, or mix in cooked proteins like chicken or shrimp for a heartier dish.