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Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe: Ultimate Delight

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Enjoy this creamy baked mac and cheese recipe that delivers rich flavors and a smooth texture. It’s perfect for gatherings and features the best oven bake mac and cheese with cream. This dish is a hit for any Mac And Cheese With Cream lovers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 4 cups of heavy whipping cream
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
  • 2 cups shredded gruyere cheese or mozzarella cheese
  • ½ + teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Panko breadcrumbs optional

Instructions

  1. Heat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Boil water in a saucepan and cook elbow macaroni for the shortest time indicated on the package to keep it al-dente.
  3. Drain the cooked pasta and transfer it into a baking dish.
  4. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, warm the heavy cream then add 2 cups of cheddar cheese, gruyere cheese, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth, then bring it to a gentle simmer.
  5. Mix the creamy cheese sauce with the pasta thoroughly.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining 2 cups of cheddar cheese evenly over the pasta mixture.
  7. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

  • The recipe can be doubled and cooked in a larger baking pan
  • We don’t recommend using pre-shredded cheese since it contains potato starch and doesn’t melt as well or create nice cheese pulls
  • For a crispier, browner top, switch the oven off and use the broiler setting until you get your preferred browning
  • You can also add precooked protein to turn this into a complete one-pan meal
  • Increase smoked paprika for a smokier flavor loved by many

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