Sunday Creamy Mac and Cheese

Name: Sunday Creamy Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; 4 cups milk; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 pound elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Mac and Cheese on Sundays when I have a bit more time to truly indulge in this classic dish. The creamy, cheesy goodness is the perfect way to relax and enjoy some quality time with family. With a combination of different cheeses and a touch of garlic, every bite melts in your mouth and warms your soul. Plus, it’s really comforting after a long week! Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll want to make it a Sunday tradition.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:19:16.169Z

When I first realized that the secret to the creamiest Mac and Cheese lies in a blend of cheeses, it changed my approach entirely. I’ve experimented with various types, but I find that combining sharp cheddar and creamy Gruyère achieves an unbeatable flavor profile. This combination not only enhances the creaminess but also gives a depth that keeps everyone coming back for more.

Another little tip I learned along the way is the importance of letting the cheese sauce thicken before mixing it with the pasta. This ensures that every piece of macaroni is perfectly coated and doesn’t dry out during baking. Trust me, following this small yet crucial step makes a world of difference!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, cheesy flavor that satisfies every craving
Creamy texture that clings to every pasta piece
A perfect dish for family gatherings and comfort food Moments

      

Mastering the Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce is truly the heart of this creamy mac and cheese. When combining cheeses, opt for a good quality sharp cheddar and Gruyère, as they melt beautifully and provide a rich flavor. If you're looking for a different twist, try adding mozzarella for extra stretchiness or pepper jack for a kick of spice. Be sure to stir continuously while adding the milk to prevent lumps; this will help achieve that luxurious, glossy texture you're aiming for.

Achieving the right thickness in your cheese sauce is key. It should coat the back of a spoon; if it’s too thin, continue to cook over medium heat for a few more minutes. If it’s too thick, whisk in a splash of milk until you reach your desired consistency. The balance of seasonings—garlic and onion powder—enhances the cheese and adds depth. Adjust to your taste, but be careful not to overpower the primary cheese flavors.

Pasta Perfection

Cooking the elbow macaroni to al dente is crucial. This means it should be firm to the bite as it will continue cooking slightly in the oven. Be sure to salt your boiling water generously; this is the only chance to season the pasta itself. After draining, tossing it in olive oil not only prevents sticking but also adds a slight richness that complements the creamy cheese sauce beautifully.

If you want to incorporate more nutrition, consider using whole grain elbow pasta or even a gluten-free version. Both alternatives will work well; just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions. Remember, the secret to great mac and cheese is to have the perfect pasta-to-sauce ratio—each piece should be beautifully enveloped in that rich cheese sauce.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a bowl of creamy goodness!

For the Cheese Sauce

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
4 cups milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta

1 pound elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Make sure to have all the ingredients prepped before you begin cooking to ensure a seamless process!

Instructions

Get ready to create the ultimate comfort dish in just a few easy steps!

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with olive oil, then set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the cheddar and Gruyère until fully melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring well until all the pasta is thoroughly coated.

Bake the Mac and Cheese

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs if desired, and bake for 20-25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

Allow to cool slightly before serving to enhance the flavors!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, add cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables to the mac and cheese before baking. This adds even more flavor and texture to the dish!

Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to prep this mac and cheese in advance, you can do so by preparing the cheese sauce and cooking the pasta a day ahead. Just store both in separate airtight containers in the fridge. When it's time to bake, combine them and transfer to your baking dish, adding an additional 5-10 minutes to the baking time since it will be colder going into the oven.

You can also freeze this dish for longer storage. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until heated through and bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

When serving this creamy mac and cheese, consider pairing it with a light salad to balance the richness of the dish. A simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess and is refreshing. If you're feeling indulgent, serve it alongside crispy fried chicken or grilled sausages for a hearty meal.

For an extra layer of flavor, try sprinkling some freshly chopped herbs like parsley or chives over the finished dish. This not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness that complements the creamy cheese beautifully. You can also experiment with toppings like crispy bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or even a drizzle of truffle oil for a gourmet twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella, fontina, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick.

→ Can I prepare this mac and cheese in advance?

Yes, you can prep the macaroni and cheese a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it just before serving.

→ Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the cheese sauce.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.