Baked Mac and Cheese – Creamy, Cheesy & Oven-Perfect

This baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food: creamy sauce, tender pasta, and a golden bubbly cheese crust that stretches with every bite.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 300 g (2½ cups) elbow macaroni

• 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)

For the Cheese Sauce

• 3 tbsp butter

• 3 tbsp flour

• 3 cups milk (warm)

• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

• Salt & pepper to taste

• ½ tsp paprika (optional)

• ½ tsp garlic powder (optional)

For Baking

• Extra cheddar or mozzarella for topping

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Boil macaroni in salted water until just al dente.

2. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

1. Melt butter in a pan over medium heat.

2. Add flour and whisk for 1 minute to form a roux.

3. Slowly pour in the warm milk while whisking.

4. Cook until thick and smooth.

5. Add cheddar and mozzarella, stirring until fully melted.

6. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.

3. Combine

1. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well.

2. Transfer to an oven-safe dish.

4. Bake

1. Top with extra cheese.

2. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15–20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.

Serve

Enjoy immediately while the cheese is stretchy, gooey, and perfect.