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USA · Food

Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

25 min
970 kcal
4 servings

By eatmundo · July 3, 2026

Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese🇺🇸AI-generated image

Same ingredients, elsewhere in the world

3 matches

Dishes from other countries' kitchens, made from the same core ingredients as Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese. The percentage is the share of ingredients the two recipes have in common.

Compare these dishes: Ultimate British Cauliflower CheeseSame technique: Casserole bake60 recipes from 16 countries

The ultimate comfort food, this baked macaroni and cheese boasts a rich, creamy sauce made with a blend of cheeses, enrobing tender pasta. Topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust, it's a dish that satisfies deeply.

According to eatmundo's ingredient comparison, the closest dish to Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese from another cuisine is Ultimate British Cauliflower Cheese (United Kingdom): the two share 67% of their ingredients.

Ingredients

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Adapt this recipe:
4 servings

How to Make It

  • 1

    Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook 350g elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  • 2

    In a large saucepan, melt 40g of the butter over medium heat. Whisk in 40g all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.

  • 3

    Gradually whisk in 500ml whole milk until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens (5-7 minutes).

  • 4

    Remove from heat. Stir in 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp dry mustard and 350g freshly shredded cheese blend (such as sharp cheddar, Gruyère and Monterey Jack) until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

  • 5

    Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.

  • 6

    Pour the macaroni mixture into an 8x8 inch (20x20 cm) baking dish. In a small bowl, melt the remaining 20g butter and toss it with 75g panko breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the macaroni.

  • 7

    Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is creamy baked macaroni and cheese?

Creamy baked macaroni and cheese is a United States pasta dish consisting of noodles combined with a rich cheese sauce made from milk, flour, butter, and seasonings. It is typically served as a hot main course or side dish during family meals and holiday gatherings.

Which type of pasta is best for creamy baked macaroni and cheese?

Classic elbow macaroni is ideal for its ability to hold the creamy sauce, but medium shells or cavatappi also work well, trapping the cheese sauce within their crevices.

What kind of cheese should I use for the creamiest and most flavorful result?

For a rich flavor and smooth melt, use a blend of sharp cheddar and a good melting cheese like Gruyère or fontina. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses as they often contain anti-caking agents that can make the sauce gritty.

How can I prevent my baked macaroni and cheese from becoming dry?

Ensure your pasta is cooked al dente before baking, as it will absorb more sauce in the oven. Also, use plenty of cheese sauce and don't overbake, removing it once the topping is golden and the sauce is bubbly.

What is the ideal baking temperature and time for creamy baked macaroni and cheese?

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly. This allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to get perfectly gooey without drying out.

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