This classic Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is pure comfort food at its best. A smooth, luxurious cheese sauce made with Velveeta and sharp cheddar coats every bite of pasta, then bakes into a bubbly, golden dish that’s impossible to resist. It’s rich, satisfying, and perfect for family dinners, holiday spreads, or anytime you want a homemade classic that delivers big flavor and serious comfort.
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dry elbow macaroni pasta | 1 lb. |
| Salted butter | 1/2 cup |
| All-purpose flour | 1/2 cup |
| Milk, at room temperature (2% or whole) | 2 cups |
| Half-and-half, at room temperature | 2 cups |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 teaspoon |
| Cubed Velveeta cheese, at room temperature | 12 ounces |
| Grated sharp cheddar cheese, divided (at room temperature) | 3 cups |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Dry mustard | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Nutmeg | Pinch |
How To Make Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pasta
Preheat the oven to 325°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni for about one minute less than the package directions for al dente, roughly 8 minutes. Drain well and toss with a small drizzle of olive oil to keep the pasta from sticking.
Step 2: Make the Roux
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about one minute, creating a smooth, lightly cooked roux.
Step 3: Create the Sauce Base
Slowly whisk in the milk and half-and-half, taking your time to keep the sauce smooth. Continue whisking and bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once thickened, remove it from the heat.
Step 4: Add Flavor and Cheese
Whisk in the Worcestershire sauce. Gradually stir in all of the Velveeta and half of the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until fully melted and silky. Season with salt, dry mustard, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, stirring until evenly combined.
Step 5: Combine and Bake
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 15 minutes, until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is fully melted.
Step 6: Broil for Finish (Optional)
For an extra golden, slightly crispy topping, place the dish under the broiler for 2–5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
