Sunday Creamy Mac and Cheese

Name: Sunday Creamy Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 teaspoon mustard powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional); 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for topping

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Sunday Creamy Mac and Cheese as a comforting treat that brings the whole family together. This dish transports me back to my childhood, where every Sunday meant spending time in the kitchen with loved ones. The combination of creamy cheese and al dente pasta is simply irresistible, and I enjoy experimenting with different cheese blends to enhance the flavors. It's the ultimate indulgence, and I can't wait to share this recipe with you all!

Created by

Poppy Walsh

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:07:15.600Z

One Sunday, trying to recreate a special memory, I decided to whip up a creamy mac and cheese recipe that my grandmother used to make. The secret was using a combination of sharp cheddar and creamy Gruyère to deliver that perfect flavor kick and luxurious texture. I learned the importance of allowing the cheese to slowly melt into the béchamel sauce to avoid clumps, which transforms the dish into an indulgent masterpiece.

Another tip I discovered is to bake the mac and cheese for a few minutes at the end. This adds a delightful crispy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior. Just a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before baking can make all the difference and elevate an already great dish into something truly spectacular!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite
Balances richness with a crunchy topping
Perfect for cozy weekends or gatherings

      

The Art of Choosing Cheese

When it comes to mac and cheese, the cheese you select plays a crucial role in achieving that creamy texture and rich flavor. Sharp cheddar is a classic choice because of its tangy taste that balances perfectly with the creaminess. Gruyère adds a sophisticated nuttiness that elevates the dish. Experimenting with a mix of cheeses can yield delightful results—try adding Fontina for extra creaminess or a sprinkle of Parmesan on top for added depth.

Make sure to shred your own cheese if possible; pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melting quality. A good melt creates a luxuriously smooth sauce, so be patient when incorporating the cheese—remove the pot from the heat once the cheese starts to melt but before it gets clumpy or hardens.

Pasta Perfection

Cooking the elbow macaroni al dente is crucial for a satisfying texture in your mac and cheese. The pasta continues to cook a bit while it bakes, so undercooking it slightly helps it retain a firm bite. Make sure to generously salt your boiling water; it enhances the pasta's flavor right from the start. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1 tablespoon of salt for every gallon of water.

Also, consider the shape of your pasta; elbow macaroni clings beautifully to cheese sauce, but alternatives like cavatappi or shells can provide unique textures. If you're prepping ahead, consider cooking the pasta a day in advance and storing it in cold water to prevent sticking—just drain and add to the cheese sauce when ready.

Make-Ahead and Variations

This recipe is perfect for make-ahead meals. You can prepare the entire dish up to the baking stage, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to enjoy, simply pop it in a preheated oven—no need to thaw! Just increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes, or until it’s heated through and the breadcrumbs are golden.

For a twist on flavor, think about adding cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables like spinach or broccoli to the cheese mixture before baking. Not only do these additions add nutrients, but they also introduce new flavors and textures to each bite, making your mac and cheese even more indulgent!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Sunday Creamy Mac and Cheese:

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs for topping

Make sure you measure everything out before you start—this will make the process much smoother!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the 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. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly, until the mixture thickens.

Stir in mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.

Combine and Prepare to Bake

Reduce heat to low and mix in the cheddar and Gruyère cheeses until melted and smooth. Fold in the cooked macaroni and season with salt and pepper. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.

Bake and Enjoy

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the mac and cheese for about 20 minutes until golden brown and bubbling. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious creation!

Don't forget to let it cool for a few minutes before diving in!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding cooked bacon or vegetables like broccoli for added flavor and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Sunday Creamy Mac and Cheese in stylish bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an eye-catching finish. Pair it with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the dish. This provides both color and variety to the plate without overshadowing the mac and cheese.

For a fun twist, consider serving it in small, individual ramekins, topped with extra breadcrumbs, and baked until bubbly. This makes for an elegant presentation, perfect for special gatherings where each guest can have their personalized serving.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your cheese sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk while stirring on low heat. This will help loosen it up and create that perfect creamy consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, just let it simmer a bit longer, stirring often until it thickens. The key is to keep it moving to avoid burning.

Should you find your baked mac and cheese is not as bubbly as you'd like, check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer. Sometimes, ovens can run cooler than expected. If necessary, finish with a brief broil on low to achieve the desired golden top—watch it closely to avoid burning!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes! You can substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta without compromising the taste.

→ How can I make it creamier?

Add a little extra milk or cream while making the sauce to achieve a creamier texture.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble it a day ahead and bake when ready to serve.

→ What cheeses can I use instead?

Feel free to mix it up with Monterey Jack, Fontina, or even a bit of blue cheese for a unique flavor.