You know that buttery smell that hits when you crack open the oven and the cheesy top is all golden and bubbly? That. That’s our childhood calling. This Cozy Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is showing up everywhere latelyPinterest boards, Sunday dinners, even those TikTok “dump and go” trends your nieces won’t stop talking about.
This one’s packed with sharp cheddar, velvety cream, and a kiss of butter. It’s like your grandma’s Campbell mac and cheese recipe, but easier to make and somehow cheesier (yes, really). Just cook, stir, bakeand boom, comfort food heaven. Full details in the blog!
We’ve made big recipes like this at almost every family get-together since I could stir a spoon. My mom swore by her crusty casserole dish, and you better believe I use the same one. I tested it. You’ll love the secret!
This Cozy Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is a rich and comforting dish perfect for family dinners. Featuring Dump And Go Mac And Cheese style, it’s a Big Recipes favorite with layers of melted cheddar and Gruyere for unbeatable flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
1 lb. dried elbow pasta
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup all purpose flour
1 1/2 cups whole milk
2 1/2 cups half and half **see chef tips #1 below**
4 cups shredded medium cheddar cheese divided (measured after shredding)
2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese divided (measured after shredding)
1/2 Tbsp. salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1/4 tsp. paprika smoked paprika is our favorite!
Instructions
Heat the oven to 325 degrees F and lightly grease a 3 quart baking dish.
Boil salted water then cook the pasta until just before al dente, drain, and toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Prepare the cheeses by shredding and dividing them into three portions: about 3 cups for sauce, 1 1/2 cups for layering, and 1 1/2 cups for topping.
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat then whisk in flour and cook for about a minute until crumbly. Gradually whisk in half and half and milk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
Once thickened to a consistency resembling thin condensed soup, remove from heat and fold in salt, pepper, paprika, and 3 cups of cheese in two additions, stirring until smooth.
Mix the cheese sauce thoroughly with the pasta, then spread half the pasta mixture in the baking dish. Spread 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese over it, add the remaining pasta on top, then sprinkle the rest of the cheese on top.
Bake for 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbling and turning lightly golden brown.
Notes
For crisp tops, broil 2–3 minutes at the end
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:15 minutes
Category:Main Course
Method:Baked
Cuisine:American
Nutrition
Calories:665
Why You’ll Love This Cozy Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
There’s something magical about pulling a bubbly dish of mac and cheese from the ovenit’s the definition of cozy comfort food. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between being indulgent enough for holidays and simple enough for weeknights. With its velvety cheese sauce and golden, bubbly top, everyone at the table will be sneaking seconds (or thirds).
Easy to make: No culinary degree required! Just a few straightforward steps.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for big recipes, family gatherings, or just some weeknight indulgence.
Nostalgic flavors: It’s the classic mac and cheese vibe we know, but elevated with Gruyere and smoked paprika.
Customizable: Add your favorite seasonings or cheeses to make it truly yours.
Breaking Down the Ingredients
This dish gets its wow factor from the cheese! Here’s a closer look at the stars of the show:
Elbow pasta: The classic base for mac and cheese. Cook it just shy of al dente so it doesn’t overcook while baking.
Cheddar cheese: Medium cheddar gives that rich, cheesy tang we all crave.
Gruyere cheese: The secret to making that ooey-gooey, slightly nutty flavor. Trust me, this takes it to cheesy homemade perfection.
Half-and-half + milk: These create a creamy texture without being too heavy.
Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle depth and warmthdon’t skip it!
Pro Tip: Want the best results? Shred your own cheese! Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent super smooth melting.
Step-by-Step: How to Make It
Let’s break it down! This creamy mac and cheese recipe couldn’t be simpleryou’ll go from stovetop to oven in no time.
Cook the pasta: Salted water is your friend here! Cook the elbows for one minute less than the package says for al dente. Drizzle some olive oil after draining so it doesn’t stick.
Shred the cheese: Divide it into three piles: for the sauce, the inner layer, and the topping.
Make the sauce: Melt butter, whisk in flour, and cook for a minute. Slowly add the dairy while whiskingwatch it turn into a silky base. Stir in the first portion of cheese and spices until melted and thickened.
Assemble: Mix the pasta with the cheese sauce. Layer half in your baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, then repeat.
Bake: Pop it into a 325°F oven for 15 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
Shortcut: Assemble ahead of time and bake later for stress-free entertaining!
Tips and Fun Variations
Because let’s be realevery home cook likes to tweak recipes to their taste. Here are some fun ideas:
Add a crunch: Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter and a pinch of paprika over the top before baking.
Mix up the cheese: Swap in Colby, mozzarella, or Muenster for part of the cheddar for a little variety. (See five-cheese variation for inspiration!)
Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne for those who love a little kick.
Extra smoky: Use smoked cheddar alongside the smoked paprika to seriously level up the flavor.
Storage & Reheating Made Simple
This recipe reheats like a dream! Whether you’re planning ahead or enjoying leftovers, here’s what you need to know:
Storage Method
Steps
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 2–3 days. Cover tightly to keep the cheese from drying out.
Freezer
Freeze before baking. Wrap tightly in foil and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
Reheating
Warm in the oven at 325°F until bubbly, or in the microwave, covered, to keep it moist.
Pro Tip: When reheating, add a splash of milk to bring that creamy texture back to life!
Expert Says
The key to achieving a perfectly COZY CREAMY BAKED MAC AND CHEESE lies in balancing the cheese melting points and starch content. Using a mix of cheeses creates smoothness, while the starch in the pasta water helps bind the sauce. Baking finishes with a crispy top that adds a pleasing textural contrast to the creamy base.
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The Journey to My Perfect Cozy Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
This cozy creamy baked mac and cheese took me way longer than I care to admitthere were burned edges, sauce that refused to thicken, and one unforgettable time I forgot the cheese entirely. But with each kitchen slip-up, I got closer to that rich, bubbly, comforting dish my family now asks for again and again.
FAQs ( Cozy Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese )
How do I get the cheese sauce extra creamy?
To achieve a creamy texture, start by making a smooth roux with butter and flour, then slowly whisk in warm milk. Use sharp cheddar for flavor and melt the cheese in low heat to avoid clumping. Stir consistently until velvety, and avoid boiling after adding cheese to keep the sauce smooth for this dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
This meal can be made a day ahead; prepare the cheese sauce and pasta separately, then combine and refrigerate. Before baking, let it come to room temperature and add a sprinkle of extra cheese on top. Baking a bit longer than usual ensures even heating and a golden crust.
What pasta type works best for this dish?
Classic elbow macaroni is ideal because its shape holds the creamy cheese sauce well. Small shells or cavatappi also work nicely if you want variety. Avoid very thin or flat noodles that may not hold sauce as well in this creamy baked recipe.
How can I make it more flavorful?
Add a pinch of smoked paprika or dry mustard to the cheese sauce for extra depth. A few dashes of hot sauce or a sprinkle of garlic powder also enhance the natural cheesiness. Topping with toasted breadcrumbs before baking adds a crunchy texture that complements the creamy sauce.
Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Cool leftovers completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and bake covered to maintain moisture. Avoid freezing with crispy toppings to preserve texture.
Conclusion
There’s just something about this Cozy Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese that feels like a warm hug on a plate. In about 40 minutes, you get that perfect golden crust with a velvety, cheesy center that calls everyone back for seconds. You’ll love how the sharp cheddar and smoky paprika dance together, making each bite a little celebration of comfort and joy.
Here’s a little kitchen secret: don’t be shy swapping cheeses or adding a pinch of cayenne for a surprising kick. Leftovers reheat beautifullyjust add a splash of milk before warming to revive that creamy magic. This is exactly the kind of flexible, forgiving recipe that loves a busy weeknight as much as Sunday dinner with the family.
I’d love to heardid a mac and cheese like this remind you of your grandma’s or spark a new family favorite? Snap a pic, share your tweaks, or stash this recipe for those cozy nights ahead. After all, the best dishes are the ones served with stories and plenty of love.
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
