The Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac Cheese

Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese Nanny Pats Secret

By Kendra ThompsonAugust 2, 2025

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4.44 (41 Ratings)

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Recipe Introduction: The Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese

Fancy a bit of comfort food? Ever crave that cheesy goodness? My baked mac and cheese recipe is here to save the day.

It is the perfect way to satisfy a craving for delicious food.

Quick Hook

Remember those Sunday dinners at Nanny Pat's? This recipe is inspired by them. This best mac and cheese is rich, creamy, and has a secret ingredient.

It's the baked mac and cheese recipe you need in your life.

Brief Overview

This dish is a classic American staple with roots in European pasta bakes. It is proper comfort food. This homemade mac and cheese recipe baked is a medium difficulty.

It needs about 1 hour and yields 6-8 servings, perfect for a family dinner.

Main Benefits

Cheese is a good source of calcium, and this mac is packed with it. It's perfect for a potluck. What makes this creamy baked mac and cheese special? The blend of cheeses and Nanny Pat's secret ingredient will make everyone happy.

Ready to make the best macaroni and cheese ever? You will need to make sure to have the ingredients before you start.

Don't forget the dry mustard!. That dash of dry mustard will take this classic baked mac and cheese over the top.

This isn't just any macaroni cheese recipes . This is pure cheesy bliss. Honestly, you'll want to make this easy baked mac and cheese recipe every week.

If you want to turn it into a gourmet mac and cheese , then try adding some truffle oil! Also, for those who love a crunchy texture, this mac and cheese with breadcrumbs is incredible.

Now, let's dive into the ingredients, shall we?

Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Baked Mac and Cheese

The Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac Cheese presentation

Ready to dive into the world of baked mac and cheese ? It's easier than you think! Let’s talk ingredients and gear.

Get ready to make the best macaroni and cheese of your life!

Main Ingredients to craft the best mac and cheese

Elbow Macaroni: 1 pound (450g) . Al dente is the way to go! Overcooked pasta turns mushy.
Unsalted Butter: 6 tablespoons (85g) . Use good quality butter, trust me.
All-Purpose Flour: 6 tablespoons (45g) . This thickens the sauce beautifully.
Whole Milk: 3 cups (710ml) , warmed. Warm milk helps the sauce come together quickly.
Dry Mustard: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) . Nanny Pat's secret ingredient, adds a certain zing!
Freshly Grated Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) . A tiny amount makes a big difference.
Salt: 1 teaspoon (5ml) . Seasoning is key!
Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) . Freshly ground is always better.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups (225g) , shredded. Sharp cheddar is the backbone of any good macaroni cheese recipes .
Gruyere Cheese: 1 cup (115g) , shredded. Adds a nutty, sophisticated flavour.
Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup (55g) , grated. A little goes a long way.
Panko Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (50g) (optional) .
Melted Butter: 2 tablespoons (30g) (optional) .

For the cheese, please, please, please, use good quality stuff! That pre-shredded stuff just doesn't melt the same, you know? And grating your own is honestly worth the arm workout.

It makes all the difference in a creamy baked mac and cheese .

Seasoning Notes

Forget bland! We're making a gourmet mac and cheese here.

Spice it up: Dry mustard is essential! The nutmeg is subtle, but it is magical.
Flavor Boosters: A dash of Worcestershire sauce can add a savory depth, if you are feeling adventurous.
Substitutions: No Gruyere? Fontina or Monterey Jack work in a pinch.

Equipment Needed for perfect homemade mac and cheese recipe baked

Just a few essentials:

Large Pot: For boiling the macaroni.
Colander: For draining. Duh!
Large Saucepan: For making that glorious cheese sauce.
Whisk: Essential for a smooth sauce.
9x13 inch baking dish : The perfect size for classic baked mac and cheese .
Cheese Grater: Ditch the pre-shredded stuff.

No fancy equipment needed! You can use a wooden spoon instead of a whisk, if you must. The most important thing is the baking dish !

Cooking Method: Nailing That Baked Mac and Cheese

Right then, let's talk about cooking THE Best Mac And Cheese : the humble baked mac and cheese . Honestly, is there anything more comforting? It's proper soul food, innit? This isn't just any old Macaroni Cheese Recipes , this is Nanny Pat's secret recipe, passed down through generations!

We're talking ultimate comfort food here, so listen up!

Prep Steps: Mise en Place is Your Mate

Think of your kitchen like a stage. Everything needs to be ready before the curtain goes up. That's your mise en place , sorted? Get your cheese grated.

Honestly, grate your own. It melts better! Get your butter and flour weighed out. Warm up that milk, too. Trust me, it makes a difference.

Plus, locate your 9x13 inch baking dish and give it a good grease. No one wants a baked mac and cheese stuck to the bottom, do they?

Time saving tip: Grate all the cheese in one go. Store it in the fridge until needed. This is the best Easy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe , after all, let's keep it easy!

step-by-step Process: From Pot to Plate

Right, let's get cooking!

First, preheat your oven to 375° F ( 190° C) .
Cook your macaroni until al dente . That means firm to the bite. About 8 minutes , usually. Drain it like your life depends on it.
Melt 6 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in 6 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1- 2 minutes .
Gradually whisk in 3 cups of warm milk. Keep stirring until it thickens, around 5- 7 minutes .
Take it off the heat! Stir in the mustard, nutmeg, salt and pepper. Don't be shy with the seasoning!
Stir in those glorious cheeses until melted and smooth. 2 cups cheddar, 1 cup Gruyere, 1/2 cup Parmesan.
Add the macaroni to the sauce. Coat it all nicely.
Pour it all into your prepared baking dish, sprinkle with buttery breadcrumbs if using. Then bake for 20- 25 minutes until golden brown.

Pro Tips: Nanny Pat's Wisdom

Want to elevate your homemade mac and cheese recipe baked ? A touch of dry mustard in the cheese sauce is the secret weapon! Don't skip it.

I am very experienced with that! Also, don't overcook your pasta! No one likes mushy mac. Using good quality cheese is very important to your Gourmet Mac and Cheese experience.

If you are interested in a Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese , warm your milk before adding it to the roux.

This ensures a super smooth sauce. If you want to add Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs , mix 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter.

Sprinkle over the top for a lovely crunch.

Recipe Notes for Your Best Baked Mac And Cheese

Right, so you're about to embark on making the best mac and cheese ever. This isn't just any macaroni cheese recipes ; this is Nanny Pat's secret recipe , remember? Here's a few extra bits and bobs to help you along the way.

These tips will make your creamy baked mac and cheese even more smashing!

Serving Up Perfection: Plating & Pairings

Honestly, the aroma of homemade mac and cheese recipe baked is half the battle won. But presentation matters, right? A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley does wonders.

Serve it straight from the baking dish for that rustic charm. On the side? A crisp green salad cuts through the richness perfectly.

And for drinks? A chilled glass of lemonade is a classic choice.

Storage Savvy: Keeping the Cheesy Goodness Alive

Got leftovers? You're lucky! Let the classic baked mac and cheese cool completely. Then, pop it in an airtight container.

It'll keep in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, bung it in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until heated through.

If freezing, divide into individual portions. Thaw overnight and reheat. It might be a little drier, so add a splash of milk.

Mixing it Up: Variations on a Theme

Feeling adventurous? Let's spice things up! For a veggie boost, chuck in some roasted broccoli or cauliflower. Fancy some heat? A pinch of cayenne pepper adds a kick.

gluten-free? Swap in gluten-free pasta and flour easy peasy. This gourmet mac and cheese can handle anything!

Nutrition Know How: A Little Bit of Info

Okay, so it's not exactly a salad, is it? One serving of this easy baked mac and cheese recipe has roughly 550 calories.

But it's packed with protein (around 25g) from the cheese and milk. Plus, it's a proper comfort food hug in a bowl.

Everything in moderation, yeah? Remember, this is about enjoying your food!

So there you have it! With these tips, you're all set to whip up the ultimate creamy baked mac & cheese .

Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Trust me, your friends and family will thank you!

Best Mac and Cheese Grandmas Secret Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my baked mac and cheese dry? How do I stop it from drying out?

Nobody wants a dry mac and cheese! The most common cause is overbaking. Make sure you're baking it just until it's golden brown and bubbly, not until the top is hard. Also, using enough cheese sauce and ensuring the pasta is well coated before baking is key.

Think of it like a Sunday roast, you wouldn't want to overcook that either!

Can I make baked mac and cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the mac and cheese in the baking dish, cover it tightly with cling film (or foil), and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it in the oven.

You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through. It is like preparing a Shepherd's Pie, you can leave it for the flavors to settle.

What kind of cheese is best for baked mac and cheese?

A blend of cheeses is your best bet for flavour and texture. Sharp cheddar provides that classic mac and cheese taste, while Gruyere adds a nutty, creamy element. A little Parmesan adds a salty, savory note.

Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as it doesn't melt as smoothly - grating your own is worth the effort, think of it as a personal touch!

Can I freeze baked mac and cheese?

Yes, but with a slight caveat! The texture might change a little after thawing. To freeze, let the baked mac and cheese cool completely, then wrap it tightly in foil and plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

You may want to add a little milk or cream to revive the creaminess, just like adding gravy to a leftover pie!

Is there a way to make this baked mac and cheese healthier?

While mac and cheese is definitely a comfort food indulgence, there are ways to lighten it up a bit. You could use whole wheat pasta, which adds fibre. Swapping some of the cheddar for a lower fat cheese like part skim mozzarella is also an option.

Loading it up with veggies like broccoli or spinach is another great way to boost the nutritional value. It's all about balance, like enjoying a good sticky toffee pudding in moderation!

My cheese sauce is lumpy! What did I do wrong?

Lumpy cheese sauce usually means the roux (the butter and flour mixture) wasn't smooth enough, or the milk was added too quickly. Make sure to whisk the flour into the melted butter and cook for a minute or two to get rid of the raw flour taste.

Warm the milk before adding it to the roux, and whisk constantly as you pour it in gradually. If it's still lumpy, you can try using an immersion blender to smooth it out. Think of it as rescuing a gravy gone wrong a good whisk and some patience usually does the trick!