Sunday Creamy Mac and Cheese

Name: Sunday Creamy Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making this creamy mac and cheese on Sundays when I want to unwind and treat my family to a comforting dish. The combination of three cheese varieties – sharp cheddar, creamy mozzarella, and tangy goat cheese – creates a depth of flavor that elevates this classic recipe. As I layer the pasta with that rich cheese sauce, I can hardly wait to dig in. It’s a great opportunity to pair with a light salad, making it a meal everyone will enjoy, any time of the year!

Created by

Naomi Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-13T00:46:12.209Z

When I first made this creamy mac and cheese, I experimented with blending different cheeses for a unique flavor profile. I discovered that using a combination of sharp cheddar and fresh mozzarella provided a creamy texture while keeping the flavors rich and satisfying. The addition of goat cheese adds a delightful tang that truly sets this dish apart.

One time, I decided to bake the mac and cheese with a breadcrumb topping for extra crunch. The contrast of the crispy layer against the creamy pasta was a game changer! I recommend keeping some extra cheese on hand for an unbeatable cheesy crust.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent, gooey cheese that pulls apart beautifully
Unique flavor from a mix of three different cheeses
Comfort food at its finest, perfect for family gatherings

      

Understanding Cheese Choices

The combination of sharp cheddar, creamy mozzarella, and tangy goat cheese in this mac and cheese brings a beautiful balance of flavors. Sharp cheddar delivers a robust, nutty taste that stands up to the richness of the dish, while mozzarella adds an appealing stretch and creaminess. Goat cheese contributes a unique tang that brightens the overall flavor profile, preventing the dish from feeling too heavy. When selecting cheeses, opt for high-quality varieties, as they melt better and enhance the dish’s depth.

When adapting this recipe, you can experiment with cheese substitutions. For example, Gruyère or Fontina can replace some or all of the cheeses, giving a different earthy dimension. If you prefer a lactose-free option, seek lactose-free cheeses that melt well. Remember that the key to a smooth cheese sauce is ensuring the cheeses are at room temperature, which helps them integrate more easily into the sauce.

Baking for Perfect Texture

Baking the mac and cheese is essential for achieving that desirable combination of creamy interior and crispy top. Make sure to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before you transfer the dish, as this helps in achieving even cooking. Watch for visual cues such as bubbly edges and a golden top; this usually takes about 20 minutes. For an extra crunch, consider broiling the top for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end – just keep a close eye to prevent burning.

If you're making this dish ahead of time, prepare it in advance and cover it tightly with foil before refrigerating. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit out for about 30 minutes to reach room temperature before placing it in the oven; this helps to ensure even cooking and optimal texture. Just be cautious to adjust your baking time slightly if the dish has been refrigerated.

Perfect Pairings and Variations

Sunday Creamy Mac and Cheese pairs excellently with a light, citrusy salad. The bright acidity of a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the cheese and pasta. You can enhance your salad by adding elements like roasted vegetables or nuts for added texture and flavor. This combination makes for a balanced meal that satisfies both the palate and the tummy.

Feel free to customize your mac and cheese with various add-ins, such as cooked bacon, roasted vegetables, or sautéed mushrooms, which can elevate the dish. If you're craving a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. These variations not only enhance the flavor but can also transform the dish into a new culinary experience while still keeping the comforting essence of the classic mac and cheese.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make the perfect creamy mac and cheese.

Ingredients

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

These ingredients will create a rich, creamy mac and cheese that you and your family will love!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your 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 directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps.

Cook until the mixture thickens, stirring frequently.

Add the Cheeses

Reduce heat to low and add the cheddar, mozzarella, and goat cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Add garlic and onion powder, then season with salt and pepper.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir well to combine. If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them on top.

Bake and Serve

Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown. Serve hot and enjoy!

This delicious mac and cheese is sure to make Sunday dinners special!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding cooked bacon bits or sautéed spinach before baking. You can also experiment with different types of pasta, like shells or cavatappi, to create variations of this classic dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If there are leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheating can be tricky, as you want to maintain that creamy texture. When reheating, add a splash of milk to the mac and cheese to prevent it from drying out, and warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often. Heat until just warmed through, about 5-7 minutes; avoid high heat, which can cause the cheese to become grainy.

For longer storage, you can freeze this mac and cheese. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned above. Freezing and reheating can slightly alter the creaminess of the cheese, but the flavors remain delightful.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're planning to feed a larger crowd, scaling this recipe is straightforward! Simply double or triple the ingredients as needed. Just ensure that your pot is large enough to accommodate the increased quantities, and adjust the baking time accordingly. For a big batch, use a larger baking dish and watch for the edges bubbling and browning to ensure even cooking throughout.

Alternatively, if you want a smaller portion, halve the ingredients without any issues. The cooking times for the pasta and baking should remain fairly consistent, but always check the pasta for doneness and the mac and cheese for bubbling to gauge timing, regardless of the quantity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I do with leftovers?

To reheat leftovers, simply place the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses. Just keep in mind that some cheeses melt differently than others.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta and ensure that the flour is substituted with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.