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Mac and Cheese
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The Only Mac and Cheese Recipe You’ll Ever Need

This ultra-creamy baked mac and cheese is rich, cheesy, and finished with a golden, melty top that delivers pure comfort in every bite. It’s the perfect make-ahead dish for gatherings or an easy crowd-pleasing side that always steals the show.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Keyword: cheese, mac and cheese, pasta, side dish
Servings: 8

Ingredients

PASTA

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni parboiled

ROUX

  • 1 stick butter
  • 1/4 cup flour

SEASONING

  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 2 tbsp hot sauce

CHEESE SAUCE

  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 16 oz Velveeta cheese
  • CHEESE BLEND
  • 1 cup shredded gouda
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar

ADDITIONAL

  • 1 cup whole milk

Instructions

  • INSTRUCTIONS
  • In a large pan over medium heat, melt the butter, then whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until smooth and lightly golden. This creates the base for a rich, creamy sauce.
  • Whisk in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and hot sauce, then slowly pour in the whole milk while stirring to keep the sauce smooth.
  • Add the Velveeta cheese and continue stirring until fully melted and the sauce is thick, glossy, and creamy.
  • Add the parboiled noodles to a greased baking dish, then layer in the gouda, mozzarella, cheddar, and remaining cup of whole milk.
  • Pour the cheese sauce over the noodles and mix thoroughly until everything is evenly coated, then finish with an extra sprinkle of shredded cheese on top.
  • Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes, or until the top cheese is fully melted and bubbling, then remove, rest briefly, and serve hot.