Name: Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb elbow macaroni; 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 8 oz cream cheese; 1/4 cup butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 3 cups whole milk; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon ground mustard powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Nothing beats the comfort of a warm, creamy, and cheesy macaroni and cheese casserole. This dish is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, featuring tender pasta coated in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, baked to golden perfection. Whether it’s a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just a cozy night in, this casserole will leave everyone craving more.

The combination of multiple cheeses, a hint of butter, and a crunchy, golden-brown topping creates the perfect balance of creaminess and texture. Every bite delivers gooey, cheesy goodness with just the right amount of crispness on top. If you love homemade comfort food, this Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Casserole is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

Ultimate comfort food – Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious.
Easy to make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a beginner-friendly recipe.
Perfect for gatherings – A great dish to serve at family dinners, potlucks, or holiday feasts.
Customizable – You can mix different cheeses, add proteins like bacon or chicken, or throw in some veggies for a unique twist.
Crispy and creamy texture – The golden-baked top complements the rich, creamy pasta underneath.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment + Importance of Each Tool

Large Pot – For boiling the macaroni pasta. A sturdy pot will help cook the pasta evenly without overflows.
Large Mixing Bowl – Ideal for combining the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce before baking.
Saucepan – You’ll need this to make the creamy cheese sauce from scratch. A medium-sized saucepan works best for heating the butter, making the roux, and melting the cheese.
Whisk – Essential for stirring the sauce and ensuring smooth consistency without lumps.
Casserole Dish – A 9×13-inch baking dish is the ideal size to hold the pasta and cheese mixture, allowing room for the golden, crispy topping.
Baking Tray – To catch any spills or drips while baking the casserole.

Each tool helps streamline the cooking process, making sure the pasta is properly cooked, the cheese sauce is smooth, and the final casserole comes out perfectly baked with that crispy golden crust.

Preparation Tips

Cook pasta al dente – The pasta will continue to cook while baking, so it’s best to undercook it by about 1-2 minutes to avoid it becoming too soft.
Use a combination of cheeses – For maximum flavor and creaminess, opt for a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese.
Grate cheese yourself – Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the sauce. Grating the cheese fresh will give you a creamier result.
Make the sauce from scratch – While store-bought cheese sauce is an option, homemade is always better. It ensures that your casserole has the richest flavor and texture.
Add seasoning – Don’t forget to season your sauce! A pinch of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and even a touch of mustard powder can elevate the flavor.

Ingredients for this Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

1 lb elbow macaroni – The classic pasta choice for macaroni and cheese.
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese – For a tangy and bold flavor.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – To add a stretchy, melty texture.
8 oz cream cheese – For extra creaminess and richness.
1/4 cup butter – To add a rich, buttery flavor to the sauce.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour – For making the roux to thicken the cheese sauce.
3 cups whole milk – Helps create a smooth, creamy sauce.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – For a subtle savory flavor.
1/4 teaspoon ground mustard powder – Adds a little kick and depth to the cheese sauce.
Salt and pepper – To taste, enhancing the flavor of the entire dish.
1/2 cup breadcrumbs – For the crispy topping.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley – For garnish (optional).

These ingredients come together to create a decadent and flavorful macaroni and cheese casserole that everyone will love.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the flour, whisking constantly to form a smooth roux. Continue to cook the mixture for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Slowly add the milk to the roux while whisking to prevent lumps from forming. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Once the sauce is thick and smooth, add the cream cheese and whisk until fully melted and incorporated.

Next, add the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until the cheeses melt completely into the sauce. Season with garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce and mix well, ensuring each piece of pasta is coated with the creamy cheese sauce.

Step 4: Transfer to Casserole Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with butter or cooking spray. Pour the cheesy pasta mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.

Step 5: Add the Topping

In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a crispy golden crust.

Step 6: Bake

Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired and enjoy your creamy macaroni and cheese casserole!

Notes

Cheese Variety – Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese based on your personal preference. Gruyère, fontina, or Monterey Jack can be great additions or substitutes for a unique twist.
Extra Creaminess – For an even richer sauce, you can substitute some of the milk with heavy cream.
Spicy Kick – Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to spice things up and give the dish an extra layer of flavor.
Make Ahead – This casserole can be assembled a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge before baking, and bake it when you’re ready to serve. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Pasta – Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven. If it’s too soft when you combine it with the sauce, it could become mushy in the casserole.
Lumpy Cheese Sauce – When making the cheese sauce, whisk the milk in gradually to avoid lumps. If your sauce does get lumpy, continue to whisk over low heat until it smooths out.
Using Pre-Shredded Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can result in a grainy sauce. Grating the cheese fresh will yield the best creamy texture.
Not Enough Seasoning – A bland cheese sauce can make the dish unappealing. Be sure to season your sauce well with salt, pepper, and other spices to enhance the flavor.
Skipping the Resting Time – Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set. If you serve it right out of the oven, the sauce might run too much.

What to Serve With Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Casserole?

Macaroni and cheese casserole is rich and comforting on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the meal. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside this dish:

8 Recommendations

Grilled Chicken – A tender, juicy grilled chicken breast is a perfect protein-packed pairing to balance the creamy richness of the casserole.
Garlic Bread – The crispy, buttery crunch of garlic bread makes a great accompaniment for dipping into the cheesy sauce.
Roasted Vegetables – Roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli add a touch of freshness and a healthy element to balance out the richness of the pasta.
Green Salad – A light, tangy green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the heaviness of the casserole.
Bacon – Crumbled crispy bacon on top of the casserole adds a savory crunch that perfectly complements the creamy texture.
Steamed Asparagus – The slight bitterness of asparagus adds an elegant touch while pairing well with the richness of the mac and cheese.
Coleslaw – A tangy, crunchy coleslaw is a great contrast in both texture and flavor, offering a refreshing side to the casserole.
Apple Sauce – A slightly sweet and tart apple sauce can help cut through the creaminess of the dish and add a touch of fruitiness to the meal.

These sides not only pair well in terms of flavor but also add variety and balance to your plate, creating a satisfying and complete meal.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers or want to prepare this dish ahead of time, here’s how to store and preserve it:

Refrigeration: Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or tightly covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: To freeze, prepare the casserole, but do not bake it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in the freezer. It will keep for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking as directed.
Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, bake for about 45-60 minutes, covering it with foil to prevent the top from burning.

Estimated Nutrition

While this creamy macaroni and cheese casserole is undeniably indulgent, here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for a standard serving:

Calories: 400-450 kcal
Protein: 15-18g
Carbohydrates: 40-45g
Fat: 22-25g
Saturated Fat: 12-15g
Cholesterol: 50-60mg
Sodium: 600-800mg
Fiber: 2-3g
Sugar: 5g

These values may vary depending on specific ingredient choices, portion sizes, and any added toppings or sides.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this macaroni and cheese casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it tightly and bake it when ready. If frozen, thaw it overnight before baking.

2. Can I use gluten-free pasta for this dish?

Absolutely! You can substitute the regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package for the best results.

3. Can I add meat or vegetables to this casserole?

Yes, you can customize this dish by adding cooked chicken, bacon, sausage, or even vegetables like broccoli, peas, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.

4. How can I make the cheese sauce smoother?

To make the cheese sauce extra smooth, whisk constantly while adding the milk to the roux, and make sure your cheese is freshly shredded. If the sauce seems lumpy, continue to whisk over low heat until it smooths out.

5. Can I use a different cheese combination?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even Parmesan. Each will provide a unique flavor and texture to the dish.

6. How do I prevent the breadcrumbs from burning on top?

To prevent the breadcrumbs from burning, cover the casserole with foil for the first 20 minutes of baking, then remove the foil to allow the top to become golden and crispy.

7. How do I make this casserole spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or even some chopped jalapeños to the cheese sauce before mixing with the pasta.

8. Can I freeze the macaroni and cheese casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole before baking it. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight and follow the usual baking instructions.

Conclusion

Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, providing a deliciously cheesy and satisfying meal. With its rich flavor, crispy top, and endless customization options, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this casserole never disappoints. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete, heartwarming meal!