Is there anything more comforting and crowd-pleasing than Cheesy, Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese? This holiday season, you can bring smiles to your family’s faces with this indulgent, rich, and soul-warming dish. Perfectly cooked elbow macaroni smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce and baked to golden perfection—what’s not to love?

Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a potluck, or a festive holiday gathering, this baked mac and cheese recipe will quickly become your go-to. Ready to make something unforgettable? Let’s dive right into this ultimate holiday special recipe!

Why This Baked Mac and Cheese is a Must-Try

This isn’t your average mac and cheese. It’s a step above with:

• Velvety texture from evaporated milk and eggs.
• A perfect cheesy blend of cheddar and mozzarella.
• Easy preparation that anyone can follow.
• Golden, bubbly topping that adds a satisfying crunch.
• Great for holidays—a dish the whole family will rave about.

With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe ensures perfect results every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to make the Cheesy, Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese for your holiday special:

Mac and Cheese Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Elbow macaroni (dry)	3 cups
Salted butter	4 tablespoons
Evaporated milk	2 cans (12 oz each)
Milk of choice (whole, 2%, or alt)	⅓ cup
Large eggs	2
Garlic salt	¼ teaspoon
Shredded cheddar cheese	4 cups
Shredded mozzarella cheese	2 cups
Paprika (optional)	1 teaspoon

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baked Mac and Cheese

1. Boil the Pasta

Cooking the macaroni just right is the foundation for a creamy baked dish.

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
• Add 3 cups of dry elbow macaroni.
• Cook for about 7-8 minutes until the pasta is al dente (tender but still firm).
• Drain the pasta in a colander and return it to the pot.

2. Coat the Pasta with Butter

• While the macaroni is still hot, stir in 4 tablespoons of salted butter.
• Mix until the butter melts completely and coats the pasta evenly. This prevents sticking and adds an extra layer of richness.

3. Prepare the Milk and Egg Mixture

The milk and egg mixture gives your mac and cheese its creamy, custard-like consistency.

• In a large bowl, whisk together:
  • 2 cans of evaporated milk
  • ⅓ cup milk of your choice
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
• Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

4. Prepare the Cheese Mixture

• In a separate bowl, combine:
  • 4 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
• This combination ensures both bold flavor and creamy texture.

5. Layer the Mac and Cheese

The secret to an amazing baked mac and cheese lies in the layering process.

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
• Add ⅓ of the buttered macaroni to the baking dish.
• Sprinkle ⅓ of the cheese mixture over the pasta.
• Repeat this process twice, creating three layers in total.
• Finish with a generous final layer of cheese on top.

6. Pour the Milk Mixture

• Carefully pour the prepared milk and egg mixture evenly over the layered macaroni and cheese.
• Make sure the liquid seeps through all the layers for a creamy result.

7. Add Paprika and Bake

• Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of paprika over the top layer for added flavor and a pop of color (optional).
• Place the baking dish into the preheated oven.
• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden, bubbly, and slightly crispy.

8. Let it Cool Before Serving

• Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes.
• This step allows the baked mac and cheese to set, making it easier to cut and serve.

9. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve your Cheesy, Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese hot.
• Pair it with your favorite sides or enjoy it as the star of the show!

Pro Tips for the Best Baked Mac and Cheese

1. Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese has additives that prevent melting, so shred your own for the creamiest results.
2. Don’t overcook the pasta: Cooking it al dente ensures it doesn’t turn mushy during baking.
3. Customize the cheese: Add gouda, gruyere, or parmesan for more flavor depth.
4. Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for a little heat.
5. Add a crunchy topping: For extra texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with butter on top before baking.

What to Serve with Baked Mac and Cheese

While this dish is a complete meal on its own, you can pair it with:

• Roasted vegetables: Broccoli, brussels sprouts, or carrots.
• Garlic bread: Perfect for soaking up cheesy goodness.
• Protein options: Serve alongside baked chicken, turkey, or ham.
• Fresh salad: A crisp green salad balances the richness of the mac and cheese.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the approximate nutrition per serving:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450-500
Protein	18g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fat	25g
Sodium	600mg

FAQs About Cheesy, Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

1. Can I make baked mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the dish ahead of time, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

2. Can I freeze baked mac and cheese?
Absolutely. Let the baked mac and cheese cool completely, then freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Definitely! Shells, penne, or fusilli all work well and hold the cheese sauce nicely.

4. What’s the best cheese for mac and cheese?
Cheddar is a classic choice for its sharp flavor, while mozzarella adds creaminess. You can mix in gouda, gruyere, or parmesan for variety.

5. How do I keep mac and cheese creamy?
Using evaporated milk, eggs, and layering cheese ensures a creamy texture. Avoid overbaking, as it can dry out the dish.

6. Can I make this recipe without eggs?
Yes, but the texture will be less custardy. Replace the eggs with an extra ½ cup of milk.

Conclusion: Your New Favorite Holiday Side Dish

This Cheesy, Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese – Holiday Special is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience. With its perfectly cooked pasta, gooey cheese, and golden baked top, it’s the ultimate comfort food for any holiday gathering.

So go ahead—gather your ingredients, follow these easy steps, and treat your loved ones to a dish they’ll be requesting year after year. Happy holidays and happy cooking!

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