Description

This Baked Mac & Cheese recipe combines a luscious blend of cheeses with a creamy, rich sauce and perfectly cooked cavatappi pasta, baked to golden bubbly perfection. With layers of sharp cheddar, creamy colby jack, stretchy mozzarella, and hints of smoked paprika and garlic powder, this comforting casserole is a timeless classic elevated to viral comfort food status.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

16 oz cavatappi pasta

Cheeses

16 oz colby jack cheese, shredded
8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Sauce and Seasonings

3 tablespoons salted butter
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
2 cups heavy cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for roux)

Instructions

Prep Your Oven and Pasta: Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking. Boil the cavatappi pasta in salted water until al dente — cooked through but still firm to the bite as it will cook further in the oven.
Grate and Mix Your Cheeses: Grate the colby jack, mozzarella, and sharp cheddar cheeses. Combine them in a bowl and set aside half of the mixture for topping the baked dish later.
Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce: In a skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter and add half of the garlic powder and smoked paprika. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until it bubbles gently. Gradually whisk in the evaporated milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir to prevent lumps. Bring the sauce to a low boil, then mix in the remaining garlic powder, smoked paprika, and Dijon mustard for a bright flavor.
Combine Pasta and Sauce with Cheese: Stir half of the shredded cheese mixture into the hot sauce until melted and smooth. Fold in the cooked pasta, ensuring each piece is well coated in the creamy cheese sauce.
Layer and Bake to Perfection: In the prepared casserole dish, layer half of the cheesy pasta mixture, sprinkle with half of the reserved cheese, then add the remaining cheesy pasta. Top with the remaining cheese to cover. Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes, then broil for an additional 3 to 4 minutes to achieve a golden, crunchy crust.

Notes

For gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend.
Add cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or steamed broccoli before baking for added protein and veggies.
Use different pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, shells, or penne if cavatappi is unavailable.
Fresh parsley or chives make great garnishes for added color and freshness.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for best texture; microwave reheating is faster but may affect cheesiness.
Adding a breadcrumb topping before baking provides a delightful crunchy texture contrast.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: baked mac and cheese, comfort food, creamy mac and cheese, cheesy casserole, baked pasta, viral recipe