Sunday Creamy Mac and Cheese

Name: Sunday Creamy Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon mustard powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I’m excited to share my favorite comfort food with you—Sunday Creamy Mac and Cheese! There's nothing quite like the rich, cheesy goodness that warms the soul and brings everyone to the table on a lazy afternoon. I have spent years perfecting this recipe, combining different cheeses for a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The addition of a secret ingredient, a touch of mustard powder, elevates the flavor and gives the dish a delightful depth. Let’s dive into the creamy deliciousness together!

Created by

Riley Dawson

Last updated on 2026-01-13T03:46:10.297Z

When I first moved out on my own, mac and cheese became my go-to dish. I loved experimenting with different cheeses and spices, and one day, I added some smoked paprika. The smoky flavor blended beautifully with the creaminess, creating a memorable dish that quickly became a staple. Since then, I tweaked the recipe continually until I found the perfect combination of cheeses that provides that gooey goodness everyone desires.

Another tip I learned during my culinary adventures is to bake the mac and cheese with a breadcrumb topping. It adds an irresistible crunch that complements the creamy pasta. Trust me, this small step transforms a simple dish into something extraordinary, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy Sundays at home.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent cheese blend for an indulgent flavor
Perfectly creamy texture that clings to each noodle
Easy to prepare and ideal for family gatherings

      

Perfecting the Pasta

The choice of pasta is crucial for a successful mac and cheese. I recommend using elbow macaroni as its shape holds onto the cheese sauce beautifully. When cooking, make sure to salt the water generously—it should taste like the sea. This seasoning will enhance the flavor of the pasta itself. Remember to cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook during baking, ensuring a perfect texture.

After draining the pasta, try to shake off any excess water. This will prevent the mac and cheese from becoming too watery later on. For an added layer of flavor, consider tossing the drained pasta with a teaspoon of olive oil to keep it from sticking together before mixing it with the cheese sauce.

Building the Flavorful Sauce

The roux is the essence of a good cheese sauce, and it’s essential to get it right. Cook the flour with butter long enough to eliminate the raw flour taste, about one minute over medium heat. The color should remain pale to keep the sauce creamy white rather than brown. Gradually add the milk to avoid lumps and whisk continuously to achieve a smooth, glossy sauce.

The combination of cheeses is what makes this dish indulgently creamy. Sharp cheddar delivers a robust flavor, while mozzarella adds stretchiness. Parmesan enhances that cheesy depth. If you prefer a different taste, feel free to substitute Gruyère for the cheddar or add a little cream cheese for an even richer texture in the sauce.

Baking to Perfection

When transferring the mac and cheese to the baking dish, consider using a 9x13 inch glass or ceramic dish. The even heat distribution helps achieve that beautiful golden top while keeping the inside creamy. If you have a broiler function in your oven, bake it uncovered for about 15 minutes, then broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for an extra crispy topping, but keep a close eye to avoid burning.

This dish can also be prepped in advance. After combining the pasta with the cheese sauce, you can cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re starting with a cold casserole. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-5 days and reheated in the oven for best results.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for perfect creamy mac and cheese:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.

Combine the Ingredients

Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Add the mustard powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix in the cooked macaroni until well coated.

Bake the Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of additional cheese if desired.

Bake for 15 minutes until bubbling and golden.

Let it rest for a few minutes before serving!

Pro Tips

For an extra twist, try adding cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables to the mac and cheese before baking. It adds flavor and makes the dish even more hearty.

Serving Suggestions

This Sunday Creamy Mac and Cheese makes a fantastic centerpiece for family gatherings or casual get-togethers. To elevate the dish, consider adding some sautéed vegetables like peas or broccoli, which pair nicely with the cheesy flavors. You can also mix in cooked proteins, such as diced chicken or crumbled bacon for a hearty meal option.

For a complete meal experience, serve with a light green salad dressed with vinaigrette. This freshness will balance out the richness of the mac and cheese. Alternatively, offering a side of garlic bread for those cozy family nights can add to the comfort food feeling.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your mac and cheese turns out too thick, simply whisk in a bit more milk until it reaches your desired creaminess before baking. On the other hand, if it seems too runny after baking, try returning it to the oven without the cover for a few minutes to allow it to set further. Avoid overcooking in the oven to prevent a dry texture; just enough time for bubbling and browning is perfect.

Another common issue is the cheesiness being too mild. For a more robust flavor, consider increasing the amount of cheddar cheese or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. If you find the flavor lacking, a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce can enhance the overall richness and depth of flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique flavor.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the mac and cheese before baking. Just thaw and bake when you're ready to enjoy!

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour alternative in the 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.