Name: Rich Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound elbow macaroni or cavatappi; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 2 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 tablespoon butter (for toasting breadcrumbs); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Golden and bubbling with crispy topping, this Rich Mac and Cheese recipe is the comfort food that everyone needs in their back pocket. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or curling up with a cozy bowl on the couch, it delivers creamy, cheesy perfection in every bite.

This isn’t your average boxed mac—it’s made with a blend of cheeses and a silky homemade sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. Finished with a buttery, golden crust, it’s decadent yet easy to make. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast at potlucks and makes your kitchen smell like a warm hug.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Rich Mac and Cheese?

Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but don’t be afraid to switch it up. Cavatappi or shells hold sauce beautifully and give an extra bite. The goal is to choose a shape with curves or grooves that lets that luscious cheese sauce cling for the ultimate creamy texture.

Ingredients for the Rich Mac and Cheese

Elbow macaroni or cavatappi – The foundation of mac and cheese, these shapes hold sauce well and create the perfect bite.

Sharp cheddar cheese – Brings bold flavor and gooey meltiness.

Gruyère cheese – Adds a rich, slightly nutty depth that makes the cheese sauce luxurious.

Cream cheese – Helps thicken and add a creamy tang to the sauce.

Whole milk and heavy cream – A combo that ensures the cheese sauce is smooth and velvety.

Unsalted butter – Forms the base of the roux and enhances the flavor.

All-purpose flour – Thickens the cheese sauce for that perfect coating texture.

Garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder – These pantry spices give subtle warmth and enhance the savory profile.

Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning every layer.

Panko breadcrumbs – Toasted with butter for a crispy, golden topping.

Fresh parsley (optional) – For a pop of color and herby freshness.

How To Make the Rich Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice) until just al dente—you want a slight bite since it will cook more in the oven. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Stir constantly until it forms a smooth, golden paste.

Step 3: Create the Cream Sauce

Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Let it simmer and thicken, then stir in garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and stir in cream cheese until melted. Add the sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, stirring until the sauce is smooth and velvety.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.

Step 6: Make the Crunchy Topping

In a small skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter and toss in the panko breadcrumbs. Toast until golden brown. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the mac and cheese.

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if using. Serve hot and enjoy every bite.

How to Serve and Store Rich Mac and Cheese

Serve Rich Mac and Cheese fresh out of the oven for the best texture and flavor. It pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad, roasted veggies, or grilled meats. For a fun twist, serve it as a side at your next BBQ or as a filling entrée with a fried egg on top.

To store leftovers, let the mac and cheese cool completely, then cover tightly or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything up to the point of baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, bake as instructed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, Fontina, or mozzarella for a different cheese profile. Just make sure to include at least one cheese with sharp flavor like cheddar to keep it bold.

How can I make this spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce. A dash of hot sauce stirred in also does the trick!

Can I freeze Rich Mac and Cheese?

Yes, but do so before baking. Assemble the dish, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake when ready.

What makes the top so crispy?

Toasting panko breadcrumbs in butter before sprinkling them on top adds a rich crunch. Baking helps them turn golden brown and irresistibly crispy.

Is there a gluten-free version?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Also, ensure your breadcrumbs are gluten-free.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this rich and creamy mac, check out these other satisfying and flavor-packed pasta dishes:

For even more indulgent recipes, follow me on Pinterest @Life with Nina — I share new comforting dishes there daily!

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you switch up the cheese blend? Maybe add bacon or jalapeños? I love hearing how others personalize their mac and cheese.

Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other make every bite extra delicious.

Rich Mac and Cheese

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Rich Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, baked to golden perfection with a creamy cheese sauce and crispy topping. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or bringing it to a potluck, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.