Comfort Food Mac And Cheese

Name: Comfort Food Mac And Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup smoked gouda, shredded; 3 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 teaspoon mustard powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Comfort Food Mac And Cheese on cozy evenings when all I want is something warm and cheesy to indulge in. The creaminess envelops the pasta perfectly, and the golden, crispy topping adds an irresistible crunch. This dish has become a staple for my family, as it warms hearts and satisfies cravings. With a simple blend of cheeses and a few pantry staples, I can whip up this comfort classic in no time. It's the ultimate afternoon treat or a perfect side for gatherings with family and friends.

Created by

Bethany Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-24T11:40:18.582Z

During one chilly weekend, I decided to experiment with different cheese blends for my Mac And Cheese. I combined sharp cheddar, creamy mozzarella, and a hint of smoked gouda, and the result was phenomenal! The contrast of flavors added an unexpected depth to the dish that I hadn't experienced before.

I also discovered that baking it for just the right amount of time gives that top layer a beautiful golden crust, while keeping the insides creamy. Adding a pinch of nutmeg really elevates the flavor, and now I can’t imagine making it any other way!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy and cheesy goodness that satisfies every craving
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
Customizable with your favorite cheese varieties for endless flavor

      

The Importance of Cheese in Mac and Cheese

Cheese is the star of this Comfort Food Mac And Cheese, and selecting the right blend can elevate your dish. Sharp cheddar provides a bold flavor, while mozzarella adds that gooey stretch we all love. Smoked gouda offers a unique depth, enriching the overall taste profile. For a twist, try incorporating pepper jack for a mild kick or a creamy brie for sophistication. Each cheese melts differently, contributing to the overall creaminess and texture—it’s a balance worth mastering.

When combining cheeses, consider their melting points and flavor strength. Keep cheddar as your base since it melts well, but introduce other cheeses gradually to maintain the overall creaminess. If you spot any lumps in your sauce, simply return it to low heat and whisk continuously until smooth. This ensures you have a silky-smooth cheese sauce that envelops the macaroni beautifully.

Technique Tips for a Perfect Bake

Baking your mac and cheese adds flavor and texture through its golden, crispy topping. Be sure to use a shallow baking dish for even cooking and optimal crust formation. The breadcrumb topping should be mixed with olive oil not just for flavor but to help it crisp up during baking. Toasting the breadcrumbs in advance gives an extra crunch and complex flavor. I often use panko instead of standard breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture.

Monitor the mac and cheese as it bakes at 350°F (about 175°C). After around 15 minutes, check for golden edges; this visual cue indicates it's nearly ready. If your topping isn’t browning after 20 minutes, you can briefly broil it under high heat for a minute or two, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Make-Ahead and Storage Options

This Comfort Food Mac And Cheese is perfect for make-ahead meals. Prepare the cheese sauce and macaroni, mix them together, and store them in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to sprinkle the breadcrumb topping right before baking to retain its crispiness.

For longer storage, you can freeze the assembled mac and cheese. Place it in an airtight container or a freezer-safe dish, ensuring it's well-covered to prevent freezer burn. It can stay fresh for up to three months. For reheating, bake from frozen, covered with aluminum foil, at 350°F for 45-50 minutes until heated through, then uncover for an additional 10-15 minutes to crisp up the top.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make this comforting classic.

Ingredients

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup smoked gouda, shredded
3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon mustard powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon olive oil

Once you have all the ingredients, you're all set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a comforting dish of Mac and Cheese.

Cook the Pasta

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

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually add milk while whisking continuously until the mixture thickens.

Stir in mustard powder, salt, and pepper.

Add the Cheese

Remove the pot from heat and add the cheddar, mozzarella, and gouda cheeses. Stir until melted and fully combined.

Combine and Bake

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well. Transfer to a baking dish. In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20 minutes, until golden.

Your Mac and Cheese is now ready to serve. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For additional flavor, try adding crispy bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms to the cheese mixture before baking.

Variations to Try

Mac and cheese is wonderfully adaptable! Add cooked vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or roasted red peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. You could also mix in cooked proteins, such as chicken, bacon, or sausage, transforming it into a full meal. For a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños or a spoonful of your favorite hot sauce directly into the cheese sauce.

Experiment with different types of pasta too! While elbow macaroni is traditional, shapes like shells, cavatappi, or even orecchiette can hold the cheese sauce well for a delightful texture variation. Each pasta shape will give this comfort dish a unique twist and keep it interesting.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cheese sauce separates or becomes grainy, it likely overheated. To fix this, try adding a splash of milk over low heat while stirring gently. This can help bring the sauce back to a creamy consistency. Always keep your heat on medium or lower when making the sauce to prevent overheating.

If you find your mac and cheese too thick after baking, it could be due to excess cooking time or not enough liquid in the sauce. Always taste before serving; if it seems dry, a dollop of cream or milk can rescue it, making the dish creamy again without sacrificing flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe. Just remember to adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ What cheese works best?

A combination of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and gouda creates an excellent flavor and texture. Feel free to mix your favorites!

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese, then refrigerate it. Bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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