Dinner

Cozy Creamy Mac and Cheese That Comforts Recipe

ByAndria Russo January 10, 2026January 10, 2026

Introduction

This cozy creamy mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food for any day. Rich, cheesy, and perfectly baked to golden perfection, it’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table in every bite.

A white bowl filled with creamy macaroni and cheese topped with a golden-brown crispy breadcrumb layer with slight green herb sprinkles. The cheese sauce is thick and smooth, covering the macaroni noodles, with a woman’s hand holding a fork pulling up a stringy, melty cheese portion from the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
2 tablespoons butter, melted (for topping, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until bubbly.
Step 3: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and is smooth.
Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in the sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses until completely melted; season with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Combine the cooked macaroni with the creamy cheese sauce, mixing until every piece is well-coated.
Step 6: If using breadcrumbs, mix them with the melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
Step 7: Transfer to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 8: Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra creaminess, substitute half the milk with heavy cream.
Try adding cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for a savory twist.
Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones for a crunchier topping.
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and flour alternatives.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a creamy, golden baked macaroni and cheese served in a round white bowl. The dish has multiple layers: the top layer is a crispy, browned breadcrumb crust with hints of green herbs sprinkled on it, while below is a rich, thick, and cheesy macaroni filling with smooth, gooey melted cheese stretching as it is lifted by a fork. The white marbled surface underneath contrasts softly with the warm tones of the food, creating a cozy and inviting look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make mac and cheese without baking it?

Yes, you can enjoy the mac and cheese right after combining the pasta and cheese sauce for a quicker version. Baking adds a crispy topping and deeper flavor but isn’t necessary.

What type of cheese works best in mac and cheese?

Sharp cheddar gives that classic flavor, but combining it with mozzarella and parmesan provides creamy texture and a rich, savory note. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or gruyere.