Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Casserole: 6 Steps to Comfort

Name: Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Casserole: 6 Steps to Comfort
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 cups milk; 1/4 cup butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1 cup breadcrumbs

September 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my ultimate comfort food: creamy macaroni and cheese casserole! Picture this: a bubbling dish of elbow macaroni enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce that just oozes richness. The moment you scoop it onto your plate, you can see the melted cheese stretching and clinging to those perfectly cooked noodles. I swear, the aroma alone is enough to make you feel like you’re getting a warm hug from the inside out!

creamy macaroni and cheese casserole - detail 1

This dish has been a staple in my family for as long as I can remember. I can still hear my grandmother’s laughter as she pulled her bubbling casserole out of the oven, the cheesy goodness radiating warmth throughout the kitchen. It’s one of those meals that brings everyone together—perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. Trust me, when you serve this creamy macaroni and cheese casserole, you’ll see smiles all around!

So, if you’re ready to dive into a bowl of pure comfort, let’s get started on making this dish that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat. You’ll want to keep the recipe close because once you try it, you’ll be dreaming about it every week!

Ingredients for Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this heavenly dish! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up the most delicious creamy macaroni and cheese casserole:

2 cups elbow macaroni – This is the star of the show! Make sure to cook it al dente, so it holds up beautifully in the casserole.
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese – I love using sharp cheddar for that rich, bold flavor! You can also mix in some mozzarella for extra stretchiness.
2 cups milk – Whole milk works best for that creamy texture, but you can use 2% if you prefer a lighter option.
1/4 cup butter – This adds richness to our cheese sauce. Make sure it’s unsalted, so you can control the saltiness of the dish.
1/4 cup all-purpose flour – This will help thicken our cheese sauce, giving it that perfect velvety consistency.
1 teaspoon salt – A must for enhancing all those delicious flavors!
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – For just a hint of warmth.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Trust me, this adds a fantastic depth of flavor!
1/2 teaspoon onion powder – Another secret ingredient that brings everything together.
1 cup breadcrumbs – This is what gives our casserole that dreamy, crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess underneath.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re already halfway to a comforting dish that’ll make your taste buds dance! Let’s get cooking!

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How to Prepare Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

Alright, let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking! This is where the magic happens, and I promise you’ll be rewarded with a dish that’s just out of this world. Here’s how to prepare this creamy macaroni and cheese casserole step by step:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is super important because it ensures your casserole cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color on top. So, let that oven do its thing while you tackle the next steps!

Step 2: Cook the Elbow Macaroni

Now, grab that 2 cups of elbow macaroni and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 7-8 minutes. Don’t forget to stir it occasionally to keep it from sticking! Once it’s done, drain it well in a colander and set it aside. You want those noodles to hold their shape when they meet that luscious cheese sauce!

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the 1/4 cup of butter. Oh, that smell is heavenly! Once it’s melted, add in the 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder. Stir it all together until it’s smooth and bubbly—this is your roux!

Next, gradually pour in the 2 cups of milk while stirring continuously. This part is crucial—keep stirring until the mixture thickens up, which should take about 3-5 minutes. You’re looking for a nice, creamy consistency that will cling to those noodles like a warm hug!

Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat and stir in 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until it’s all melty and gooey. Trust me, this is the moment you’ll want to get a spoon and taste that cheese sauce—it’s irresistible!

Step 4: Combine Macaroni with Cheese Sauce

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked macaroni to your cheese sauce and mix it in thoroughly. You want every noodle coated in that creamy goodness—so don’t be shy! Get in there and stir until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

Grab a greased baking dish (9×13 inches works perfectly) and pour your macaroni and cheese mixture into it. Spread it out evenly, and then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese on top. For that extra crunch, finish it off with a layer of breadcrumbs. This crispy topping is what dreams are made of!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop that beautiful casserole into your preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and bubbly. Oh, and the smell wafting through your kitchen? Absolutely divine! Once it’s done, let it sit for a few minutes before digging in. Trust me, the waiting is worth it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This creamy macaroni and cheese casserole comes together in just about 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Ultimate Comfort Food: With its rich, velvety cheese sauce and tender macaroni, every bite feels like a warm hug. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in comfort!
Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite ingredients! Toss in some cooked veggies, bacon, or even a sprinkle of hot sauce for a twist. The options are endless!
Feeds a Crowd: This recipe yields 6 generous servings, so it’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Everyone will be asking for seconds!
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve—talk about convenience!
Leftover Heaven: If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare!), they taste just as delicious the next day. Simply reheat and enjoy!
Kid-Approved: Kids go crazy for this cheesy goodness! It’s a surefire way to please even the pickiest eaters.

Trust me, once you try this creamy macaroni and cheese casserole, you’ll be adding it to your regular dinner rotation. It’s a dish that brings joy to the table—and who doesn’t love that?

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your creamy macaroni and cheese casserole turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my tried-and-true tips that I swear by:

Cheese Choices: Don’t be afraid to mix and match your cheeses! While I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, adding some Gruyère or Monterey Jack can give it a whole new dimension. Just remember to use a good melting cheese for that creamy texture!
Make It Your Own: Feel free to add extras like cooked broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or even crispy bacon bits for a flavor boost. Just be sure to keep the proportions balanced—too many add-ins can alter the creaminess.
Don’t Skip the Baking: Baking the casserole not only warms it through but also creates that delicious golden crust on top. If you’re in a hurry, you can skip the baking, but trust me, the crispy topping is worth the wait!
Check for Seasoning: Before you pour everything into the baking dish, taste your cheese sauce! You might want to add a pinch more salt or some hot sauce if you like a little kick. Adjusting flavors before baking makes a world of difference!
Let It Rest: After you take the casserole out of the oven, let it sit for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set up a bit more, making it easier to scoop out those perfect portions!
Leftover Magic: If you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When reheating, add a splash of milk to bring back that creamy texture—no one likes dry mac and cheese!

With these tips up your sleeve, you’ll be ready to impress everyone with your creamy macaroni and cheese casserole! Trust me, it’s going to be a hit!

Nutritional Information

Now, I know you’re probably curious about the nutritional details of this creamy macaroni and cheese casserole! Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving (about 1 cup). Remember, these are estimated values, so they might vary a bit based on your specific ingredients:

Calories: 450
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 20g
Sodium: 600mg
Cholesterol: 70mg

This creamy delight is definitely a treat, rich in flavors that will fill you up and keep you satisfied! Just keep in mind, it’s best enjoyed in moderation (though I wouldn’t blame you for going back for seconds!). Happy cooking!

FAQ About Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Casserole

Got questions about this creamy macaroni and cheese casserole? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with my answers to help you out:

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! While I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, you can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella, Gruyère, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist. Just make sure to use good melting cheeses to keep that creamy texture!

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture, pour it into your greased baking dish, and cover it tightly. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to let it sit out for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven for even baking.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the oven or microwave. To keep it creamy, add a splash of milk while reheating if it seems a bit dry.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Adding cooked broccoli, spinach, or even sautéed mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition of your creamy macaroni and cheese casserole. Just be sure to balance the proportions so it doesn’t become too watery!

What should I do if my cheese sauce is too thick?

If your cheese sauce turns out too thick, don’t panic! Just stir in a bit more milk over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. It should be smooth and creamy when you mix it with the macaroni.

Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure it’s completely cooled before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and then bake until heated through.

How can I make it gluten-free?

To make this creamy macaroni and cheese casserole gluten-free, simply swap out the elbow macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free all-purpose flour for the cheese sauce. It’ll still be just as delicious!

Got more questions? I’m here to help! Just drop me a line, and let’s make sure your creamy macaroni and cheese casserole turns out perfectly every time!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about what to do with those delicious leftovers! If you happen to have any creamy macaroni and cheese casserole left after your meal (which is rare, I know!), here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers: Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This will help keep it fresh! You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s sealed tightly to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors from the fridge.
Freezing: If you want to save it for a later date, you can freeze the casserole! Make sure it’s completely cooled, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just move it to the fridge to thaw overnight.

Now, let’s talk reheating! You’ll want to bring back that creamy goodness without drying it out:

Oven Reheating: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. If you want to refresh that crispy topping, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking!
Microwave Reheating: If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave! Scoop out a portion into a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel (this helps keep the moisture in), and heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. If it seems a bit dry, stir in a splash of milk to bring back that creamy texture!

Following these storage and reheating tips will ensure your creamy macaroni and cheese casserole stays delicious and comforting, no matter when you enjoy it next. Happy eating!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.