Table of Contents
- Key Takeaways
- Why This Easy Baked Mac and Cheese is a Must-Try
- How Betty Developed This Creamy Comfort Classic
- Tips for Making the Creamiest Mac and Cheese
- Perfect Pairings for a Complete Dinner Recipe
- Storing and Reheating This Delicious Dish
- Notes & Tips
Key Takeaways
This creamy baked mac and cheese recipe from Betty Cooks is a rich, cheesy, and satisfying comfort food dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and a crowd-pleasing flavor, it’s one of those easy recipes that everyone should have in their collection.
Why This Easy Baked Mac and Cheese is a Must-Try
If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort dish, this easy baked mac and cheese delivers. With its golden-baked top and ultra-creamy cheese sauce, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. At Betty Cooks, we believe in easy recipes that don’t compromise on taste, and this one checks all the boxes — especially when it comes to dinner recipes that feel like a warm hug.
How Betty Developed This Creamy Comfort Classic
Betty, the creator behind Betty Cooks, is all about homemade goodness. Inspired by childhood memories and a love for gooey cheese, she crafted this creamy mac and cheese as the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It’s not just one of those quick dinner recipes — it’s a heartfelt dish that brings generations together. The flavor? Pure nostalgia in every bite.
Tips for Making the Creamiest Mac and Cheese at Home
Want that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture? Use a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar and mozzarella, and be sure to whisk your roux until smooth before adding milk. If you’re following recipes for dinner that require make-ahead options, this dish holds up beautifully. Whether served fresh or reheated, it’s everything you want in a comfort meal and more.
Perfect Pairings for a Complete Dinner Recipe
This baked mac and cheese is hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with crispy chicken, a fresh green salad, or roasted veggies creates a balanced, satisfying meal. It also complements other easy recipes like butter swim biscuits or even chicken stirfry if you’re looking for variety at the dinner table.
Storing and Reheating This Delicious Dish
This dish stores well in the fridge for up to four days and reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave. It’s one of those easy recipes that works well for meal prep and makes delicious leftovers. Whether you’re using a traditional oven or a ninja creami device for quick results, this mac and cheese remains creamy and comforting.
Notes & Tips
Sprinkle paprika on top before baking for a bit of smoky depth, or stir in some cooked bacon for extra flavor. For a twist, add cooked broccoli or peas to sneak in some veggies. However you make it, this baked mac and cheese remains one of the best and most requested comfort food easy recipes on the Betty Cooks website.
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese – Easy Recipes for Comfort
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Mix until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
- Pour mixture into prepared baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
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