Gooey Mac And Cheese: The ULTIMATE Baked Recipe

Name: Gooey Mac And Cheese: The ULTIMATE Baked Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cups milk; 1/4 cup butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Experience creamy, cheesy perfection with this ultimate baked mac and cheese recipe. Packed with layers of gooey melted cheese and a crispy golden topping, it's the ultimate comfort food that will satisfy any cheese lover. Perfect for cozy family dinners or as a crowd-pleasing side dish at gatherings, this mac and cheese is easy to prepare and delivers a taste that will leave everyone craving more.

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2025-12-10T14:52:59.901Z

This gooey mac and cheese recipe has been a family favorite for years. With its rich flavors and delightful textures, it brings everyone together around the dinner table.

The Best Cheeses for Mac and Cheese

When crafting the ultimate mac and cheese, the choice of cheese is crucial. Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, providing a rich, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy base. For extra gooeyness, mozzarella is included, lending astringent stretchiness that's so satisfying. To elevate the dish, Parmesan adds a nutty, savory depth that enhances all of the other flavors. Mixing these cheeses creates a harmonious balance, ensuring every bite is bursting with cheesy goodness.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider experimenting with different cheese blends. Gruyère brings a unique, slightly sweet profile, while cream cheese can add extra creaminess to the sauce. Don't shy away from incorporating blue cheese for a bold flavor twist or pepper jack for a little kick. The beauty of mac and cheese is its versatility—feel free to customize the cheese selection to match your taste preferences!

Tips for Perfectly Creamy Mac and Cheese

Achieving that creamy, velvety texture in mac and cheese often comes down to technique. First, choose a good quality cheese, as the flavor and meltability can significantly affect the final dish. Be sure not to rush the cheese sauce process; allowing the milk to gradually thicken before adding cheese ensures that it melts evenly and completely. Stirring continuously helps create a smooth, lump-free sauce.

It's also essential to cook the macaroni just until al dente. This means undercooking it slightly, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This prevents soggy pasta and retains a bit of bite, balancing the creamy sauce perfectly. Lastly, don't skip the breadcrumb topping! It adds delightful texture and crunch that contrasts with the rich, gooey cheese.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cups milk
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp olive oil

Mix all the ingredients well to ensure a creamy consistency.

Instructions

Cook the Macaroni

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

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.

Add Cheese

Reduce heat to low and add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Combine Macaroni and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until well coated.

Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish.

Add Topping and Bake

In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle over the mac and cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking step, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply adjust the baking time as necessary.

What can I substitute for the elbow macaroni? While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you like! Shells, cavatappi, or even penne work wonderfully, adding a fun twist to this classic dish.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with any leftover mac and cheese, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or oven. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can help restore some creaminess.

For longer storage, consider freezing mac and cheese. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to two months; simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese a day in advance and bake it just before serving.

→ What types of cheese can I use?

You can substitute with your favorite cheese. Just ensure it melts well.