Name: Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 16 oz elbow macaroni; 2-4 tablespoons salted butter, plus extra for greasing the baking dish; 2 large eggs, beaten; 2 (13 oz) cans evaporated milk; 3 cups whole milk; 16 oz Swiss cheese, shredded; 16 oz medium cheddar cheese, shredded; 16 oz cream cheese, at room temperature; 3 teaspoons salt; 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; Freshly ground black pepper, for garnish

There’s just something about a creamy, cheesy, perfectly baked mac and cheese that hits all the right notes. It’s the kind of comfort food that makes everyone around the table stop and savor each bite. And when you add a hint of Cajun seasoning to bring in a little southern flair? Now, that’s a mac and cheese that stands out. If you’re looking for the ultimate mac and cheese recipe that’s creamy, cheesy, with a bold twist, you’ve come to the right place.

This baked mac and cheese isn’t just any pasta dish; it’s a hearty meal that’s bound to impress. It’s loaded with three kinds of cheese for a rich, creamy texture that can’t be beaten, with a touch of Cajun seasoning to add that subtle, smoky spice. This recipe takes classic mac and cheese and gives it a crowd-pleasing, flavorful twist, perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or just when you’re craving something comforting and a little extra special.

Check out my Thanksgiving Recipes:

Whether you’re a mac and cheese fan or just discovering its magic, this dish is easy to make, stores well, and can feed a crowd. Let’s dig into the details so you can make this unforgettable baked mac and cheese with confidence.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need for this creamy, comforting, and spicy baked mac and cheese:

16 oz elbow macaroni
2-4 tablespoons salted butter, plus extra for greasing the baking dish
2 large eggs, beaten
2 (13 oz) cans evaporated milk
3 cups whole milk
16 oz Swiss cheese, shredded
16 oz medium cheddar cheese, shredded
16 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
3 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Freshly ground black pepper, for garnish

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baked Mac and Cheese

Prepare the Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a large baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
Cook the Macaroni
Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, but stop cooking when it’s just slightly underdone (al dente). Drain well and set aside.
Create the Cheese Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the room-temperature cream cheese with evaporated milk. Whisk until you achieve a smooth, creamy mixture. It’s okay if there are a few small lumps, as they’ll melt during baking.

Add Seasonings and Milk
Pour in the whole milk and add salt, Cajun seasoning, mustard powder, and nutmeg. Stir until everything is well combined, and then add half of the shredded Swiss and cheddar cheeses to the bowl. Stir again.
Check the Flavor
Give the mixture a quick taste to check the seasoning. Adjust with extra salt or Cajun seasoning if needed. This is your chance to make sure the sauce has the perfect balance of flavor.
Incorporate the Eggs
Whisk the beaten eggs into the cheese mixture to help bind everything together during baking.
Combine with Macaroni
In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese mixture, stirring gently to ensure each piece of pasta is coated.
Top with Remaining Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining shredded Swiss and cheddar cheeses evenly across the top. Add freshly ground black pepper for a little extra kick.

Bake and Broil
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden. If you like a crustier top, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes.

Serve
Allow the baked mac and cheese to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy each rich, cheesy bite with family or friends.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Avoid Overcooking the Pasta: Stop cooking the macaroni when it’s al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy in the oven.
Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is softened for easy blending. This avoids lumps and keeps the sauce smooth.
Layer the Cheese for Maximum Flavor: Adding half the cheese to the sauce and reserving the other half for the top creates that gooey, golden-brown crust we all love.
Broil for Extra Crispness: After baking, broil the mac and cheese for a couple of minutes to get that golden-brown top.
Season to Taste: Cajun seasoning can vary in spice, so taste your sauce before baking and adjust the seasoning if you want it bolder or milder.

15 Variations to Try

Three-Cheese Blend: Use Gruyère, sharp cheddar, and mozzarella for a mix of sharp, creamy, and stretchy textures.
Bacon Mac and Cheese: Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon for added savory flavor.
Garlic and Herb Mac: Add minced garlic and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an earthy twist.
Buffalo Mac and Cheese: Add a drizzle of buffalo sauce for spicy, tangy flavor.
BBQ Mac and Cheese: Stir in a spoonful of BBQ sauce or some pulled pork for a smoky taste.
Green Chili Mac and Cheese: Add chopped green chilies for some mild heat.
Seafood Mac and Cheese: Fold in cooked shrimp or lobster for a seafood twist.
Truffle Mac and Cheese: A touch of truffle oil can bring a gourmet feel.
Italian-Inspired Mac: Mix in Italian seasoning and top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan for a crunchy, Italian flair.
Chicken Mac and Cheese: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken for a hearty main dish.
Spicy Jalapeño Mac: Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
Veggie-Packed Mac: Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for a healthier spin.
Panko-Crusted Mac and Cheese: Sprinkle seasoned panko breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.
Mac and Cheese with Hot Dogs: Perfect for kids, mix in chopped hot dogs.
White Cheddar Mac: Use only white cheddar for a milder, creamy version.

What to Serve with Baked Mac and Cheese

BBQ Ribs
Grilled Chicken Thighs
Fried Chicken
Caesar Salad
Garlic Bread
Steamed Broccoli
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Baked Beans
Coleslaw
Fried Fish
Green Beans
Sauteed Spinach
Grilled Corn on the Cob
Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, cover with foil to prevent drying out. You can also add a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture before heating.

For longer storage, freeze baked mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until warmed through.

How Much to Make for a Family Gathering

For a family gathering, it’s best to double this recipe to serve 10-12 people as a side dish. If it’s the main dish, prepare 1.5 times the recipe per 8-10 people. This way, everyone gets a satisfying portion, with a little extra for seconds.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can make this baked mac and cheese up to 2 days in advance. Follow the recipe up to the baking step, then cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. When ready to serve, remove the covering and bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes since it’ll be starting cold.

Additional Tips for Perfect Baked Mac and Cheese

Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents, which can affect the creaminess. Grate the cheese yourself for the best results.
Heavy Cream Option: For an even richer texture, replace 1 cup of whole milk with heavy cream.
Don’t Skip the Salt: Pasta absorbs a lot of salt, so don’t hesitate to taste and adjust the seasoning.
Experiment with Toppings: Crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs make for a fantastic crunchy topping. Just sprinkle some on before baking for added texture.

Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese

Author: Aaron Brown Courses:Holiday Side Dishes Thanksgiving

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 15 minutesCook time: 35 minutesRest time: 5 minutesTotal time: 55 minutesServings:8 servingsCalories: kcal Best Season:Fall

Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a large baking dish with butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, but stop cooking when it’s just slightly underdone (al dente). Drain well and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the room-temperature cream cheese with evaporated milk. Whisk until you achieve a smooth, creamy mixture. It’s okay if there are a few small lumps, as they’ll melt during baking.
Pour in the whole milk and add salt, Cajun seasoning, mustard powder, and nutmeg. Stir until everything is well combined, and then add half of the shredded Swiss and cheddar cheeses to the bowl. Stir again.
Give the mixture a quick taste to check the seasoning. Adjust with extra salt or Cajun seasoning if needed. This is your chance to make sure the sauce has the perfect balance of flavor.
Whisk the beaten eggs into the cheese mixture to help bind everything together during baking.
In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese mixture, stirring gently to ensure each piece of pasta is coated.
Sprinkle the remaining shredded Swiss and cheddar cheeses evenly across the top. Add freshly ground black pepper for a little extra kick.
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden. If you like a crustier top, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
Allow the baked mac and cheese to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy each rich, cheesy bite with family or friends.