Baked mac and cheese is all about creamy pasta, melty cheese, and that crispy, golden top. Here are five standout recipes—from richly decadent to fresh and herb-forward—that bake up perfectly in the oven.
1. RecipeTin Eats Baked Mac and Cheese
A beloved favorite that balances creaminess and crunch. This recipe uses a white sauce base with butter, flour, and milk, then stirs in Gruyère and mozzarella for melty richness. The pasta is layered with extra cheese and topped with buttery golden breadcrumbs before baking. The result is smooth, cheesy, and crisp on top—classic comfort food. 👉 RecipeTin Eats Baked Mac and Cheese
2. Southern‑Style Soul Food Mac and Cheese
This Southern-style version uses a custard base—eggs and evaporated milk—mixed with five types of cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, Colby, and American). The result is extra decadent, with a slightly firmer, sliceable texture that’s popular in soul food and holiday dinners. It’s baked until bubbly and lightly browned. 👉 Southern Baked Mac and Cheese – Sweet Tea & Thyme
3. Ina Garten’s Overnight Mac and Cheese
Perfect for planning ahead, this recipe soaks partially cooked pasta overnight in a blend of half-and-half and shredded cheddar and Gruyère. The result is a baked mac and cheese that’s extra creamy but holds its shape beautifully. Finished with breadcrumbs for crunch, it’s a make-ahead marvel that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture. 👉 Ina Garten’s Overnight Mac and Cheese – Simply Recipes
4. Mom On Timeout’s Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
Rich and indulgent, this recipe starts with a velvety béchamel sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and cream. It mixes in sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, and mozzarella for that stretchy, gooey pull. A panko-Parmesan topping gets crisp and golden in the oven. Ideal for weeknights or potlucks—it reheats like a dream. 👉 The BEST Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese – Mom On Timeout
5. Family‑Favorite Contest‑Winning Baked Mac and Cheese
A smooth, creamy cheese sauce is the star here—made with sharp cheddar and American cheese, plus a touch of Dijon for complexity. The pasta is coated generously, baked at 350°F, and then broiled for a bubbly, browned crust. It’s a no-fail favorite with rave reviews for both flavor and texture. 👉 Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese (Contest‑Winning!) – The Chunky Chef
🔧 Expert Tips for Baking Success
- Under‑cook the pasta by 1–2 minutes so it finishes cooking during baking
- Layer cheese: sprinkle extra cheese between pasta layers for gooier texture
- Toppings matter: Use buttered breadcrumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, or even crumbled bacon for crunch
- Make‑ahead friendly: Most recipes can be assembled the night before and baked before serving
📋 Comparison Table
| Recipe | Cheese Blend | Topping Type | Make-ahead Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|
| RecipeTin Eats | Gruyère + mozzarella | Buttery breadcrumbs | Yes |
| Sweet Tea & Thyme (Southern-style) | Cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, etc | None | Yes |
| Ina Garten’s Overnight | Cheddar + Gruyère | Buttered breadcrumbs | Excellent (overnight soak) |
| Mom On Timeout | Cheddar, Colby Jack, mozzarella | Panko–Parmesan crumbs | Yes |
| The Chunky Chef (contest‑winner) | Sharp cheddar + American | Broiled cheesy crust | Yes |
These baked mac and cheese recipes each bring something unique—velvety cheese sauce, crunchy golden tops, and easy prep. Pick one, grab a baking dish, and get ready for oozy, bubbly comfort food at its best!