Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Chef Emy Robert

October 5, 2024

Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese: A Comforting Classic

Macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, and nothing beats a homemade recipe that’s been passed down from generation to generation. Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese is the kind of dish that brings people together—whether for family dinners, holidays, or potlucks. Its creamy, cheesy interior paired with a golden-brown, baked top creates a deliciously satisfying contrast of textures. This dish is more than just a side; it’s a comforting main course that’s hearty enough to please everyone at the table.

If you’re looking for more classic mac and cheese recipes, check out the AllRecipes Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese, which offers another take on this beloved dish.

What Makes Momma’s Macaroni and Cheese So Special?

What sets Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese apart from the usual stovetop versions is its rich, velvety texture combined with the crisp, golden crust that forms during baking. The use of multiple types of cheese—such as Velveeta, cheddar, and Monterey Jack—ensures a perfect balance of creaminess and flavor. The milk and eggs help bind everything together, giving the dish its signature creamy consistency, while baking adds a satisfying crunch to the top layer.

For a Southern twist on this classic dish, you can also explore the The Spruce Eats Southern Baked Mac and Cheese for inspiration.

Key Ingredients for Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

This recipe calls for simple, readily available ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Elbow Macaroni: Classic elbow macaroni is ideal for holding onto the creamy cheese sauce.
Velveeta Cheese: Known for its smooth melting quality, Velveeta gives the dish its ultra-creamy texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor to balance out the richness of the Velveeta.
Monterey Jack Cheese: Provides a mild, creamy addition to the cheese mix.
Butter: For richness and added flavor.
Milk: Helps to thin the sauce and provide moisture during baking.
Eggs: These bind the ingredients and give the dish a firmer texture after baking.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning that enhances the flavor of the cheese and pasta.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese:

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Begin by boiling 16 oz of elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook while baking. Once done, drain the macaroni and set it aside.

Step 2: Melt the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt 1 lb of Velveeta cheese over low heat with ¾ cup of milk. Stir constantly until the cheese is fully melted and smooth.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, toss the cooked macaroni with 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the melted cheese sauce to the pasta and stir until the macaroni is well-coated.

Step 4: Add Additional Cheeses

Stir in 4 oz of shredded cheddar cheese and 4 oz of Monterey Jack cheese. This adds both flavor and additional creaminess. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of pepper.

Step 5: Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 large eggs and ¾ cup of milk. Pour this mixture over the macaroni and cheese, making sure to stir everything together until well incorporated.

Step 6: Bake the Macaroni and Cheese

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the macaroni mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with an additional 2 oz each of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese to create a crispy, cheesy crust.
Bake for 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.

Recipe Variations

If you’d like to put your own spin on this classic dish, here are a few variations to try:

Three-Cheese Macaroni
- Add a third cheese like Parmesan or Gruyère for an extra layer of flavor.
Bacon Mac and Cheese
- Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory twist. The addition of bacon makes the dish even more hearty and indulgent.
Spicy Mac and Cheese
- For those who like a bit of heat, add jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
Vegetable Mac and Cheese
- Sneak in some extra nutrients by adding broccoli, cauliflower, or spinach to the dish. These vegetables not only add texture but also make the dish more balanced.

Tips for Making the Creamiest Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that prevent it from melting smoothly. Grating your own cheese ensures a creamy sauce and better texture.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking the pasta just until al dente ensures that it doesn’t become mushy after baking.
Add Heavy Cream for Extra Richness: If you want an even richer and creamier sauce, you can substitute some of the milk with heavy cream.

Serving Suggestions for Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

This baked macaroni and cheese is versatile and pairs well with many sides and main dishes. Here are a few serving suggestions:

As a Main Dish: Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to create a balanced meal.
As a Side Dish: This mac and cheese works perfectly alongside fried chicken, pork chops, or barbecue ribs.
Top with Crunchy Toppings: For extra texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or crispy fried onions on top before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What makes this macaroni and cheese so creamy?

The combination of Velveeta cheese with other shredded cheeses like cheddar and Monterey Jack, along with the addition of eggs and milk, creates a rich and creamy texture.

2. Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! You can experiment with various cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or even smoked cheddar to add different flavors.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese up to the point of baking and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just remember to add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

4. Can I freeze baked macaroni and cheese?

Yes, you can freeze the dish. Once baked and cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven.

5. What side dishes go well with macaroni and cheese?

Macaroni and cheese pairs well with a variety of sides, including coleslaw, roasted vegetables, and garlic bread. For a heartier meal, serve it with grilled meats or fried chicken.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese is more than just a dish—it’s a comforting, nostalgic experience. Its creamy, cheesy interior paired with a golden-brown crust makes it a favorite for family dinners, holiday gatherings, and potlucks. Whether served as a main dish or a side, this baked mac and cheese recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.

For more mac and cheese variations, check out the Just A Pinch Momma’s Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese for additional inspiration.