Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with Crunchy Ritz Topping: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

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When you think about comfort food, what instantly comes to mind? For many, it’s the warm, gooey goodness of mac and cheese. There’s something uniquely satisfying about sinking your fork into creamy, cheesy pasta with a golden, crunchy topping that delivers both indulgence and nostalgia. This recipe for Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with Crunchy Ritz Topping isn’t just any version — it’s a rich, flavorful twist that balances a luscious cheese blend with a buttery, crispy crust that will make you want to come back for seconds (or thirds).

If you’ve ever wanted to master a baked mac and cheese recipe that impresses guests or simply satisfies your soul, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into why this recipe works so well and how you can easily create it at home.

Why This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Stands Out

You might already have your go-to mac and cheese recipe, but this one deserves a spot in your collection for several reasons: Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Baked Spinach Mushroom Quesadillas

• The Cheese Blend: Instead of using just cheddar, this recipe combines Havarti, cheddar, fontina, and brie cheeses, giving you a complex and layered flavor that melts perfectly. Havarti brings creaminess, cheddar adds sharpness, fontina offers a mild nuttiness, and brie delivers a silky richness that makes every bite luxurious.
• Creamy yet Light: Thanks to the use of whole milk and sour cream, the sauce stays velvety without becoming too heavy. The sour cream also adds a subtle tang that cuts through the richness, making the dish balanced.
• Flavor Depth: The addition of ground mustard and cayenne pepper introduces warmth and a gentle kick, elevating the flavor profile without overwhelming the cheese.
• Crunchy Ritz Topping: Here’s where the magic happens — crushed Ritz crackers blended with butter, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika form a golden crust that contrasts perfectly with the creamy pasta underneath.

This baked mac and cheese hits all the right notes: creamy, cheesy, slightly spicy, and topped with a crispy, buttery layer. It’s no surprise that baked mac and cheese remains a crowd favorite, especially with this level of detail in flavors and textures.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with Crunchy Ritz Topping

Before you begin, gather the ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process. Using quality ingredients will make a noticeable difference in the final dish.

Cheese Blend

• Havarti cheese — 1 1/4 cups shredded
• Cheddar cheese — 1 1/4 cups shredded
• Fontina cheese — 1 cup shredded
• Brie cheese — 6 ounces, rind removed and cubed

Pasta and Dairy

• Dry shells or elbow macaroni — 1 pound
• Whole milk — 3 cups
• Sour cream — 1/2 cup

Seasonings and Spices

• Ground mustard — 1/4 teaspoon
• Cayenne pepper — 1/4 teaspoon
• Kosher salt and black pepper — to taste
• Onion powder — 1/2 teaspoon (for topping)
• Garlic powder — 1/2 teaspoon (for topping)
• Paprika — 1/4 teaspoon (for topping)

Crunchy Ritz Topping

• Crushed Ritz crackers — 1 1/2 cups
• Salted butter — 2 tablespoons, room temperature

Ingredient Table for Quick Reference

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Dry shells or elbow macaroni	1 pound
Havarti cheese, shredded	1 1/4 cups	Half used inside, half for topping
Cheddar cheese, shredded	1 1/4 cups	Half used inside, half for topping
Fontina cheese, shredded	1 cup	Half used inside, half for topping
Brie cheese, cubed	6 ounces	Rind removed
Whole milk	3 cups
Sour cream	1/2 cup
Ground mustard	1/4 teaspoon
Cayenne pepper	1/4 teaspoon
Kosher salt	To taste
Black pepper	To taste
Crushed Ritz crackers	1 1/2 cups	For topping
Salted butter	2 tablespoons	Room temperature
Onion powder	1/2 teaspoon	For topping
Garlic powder	1/2 teaspoon	For topping
Paprika	1/4 teaspoon	For topping

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with Crunchy Ritz Topping

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it’s warming, butter a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly. This not only prevents sticking but adds a subtle richness to the edges of your baked mac.

Step 2: Mix the Pasta and Cheese Base

Place your dry pasta in the buttered baking dish. Add half of your shredded Havarti, cheddar, and fontina cheeses, then pour in the whole milk and sour cream. Sprinkle in the ground mustard, cayenne pepper, and season generously with kosher salt and black pepper. Add about 1/3 cup of water to help the pasta cook evenly. Mix everything together well to ensure the cheese is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Add the Brie

Evenly push the cubed brie cheese into the pasta mixture. Brie will melt beautifully during baking, infusing the dish with creamy, buttery richness.

Step 4: Cover and Bake

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for 25 minutes. This allows the pasta to cook through and the cheeses to melt smoothly.

Step 5: Prepare the Ritz Topping

While the pasta bakes, combine the crushed Ritz crackers with room-temperature butter, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika in a bowl. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated and the mixture holds together slightly.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Topping, Then Bake Again

After the initial 25 minutes, remove the foil from the baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheeses over the pasta, then add the Ritz cracker mixture evenly on top. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the topping has turned a beautiful golden brown.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Remove your mac and cheese from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve while hot to enjoy the perfect creamy-cheese combination with a crispy, buttery crunch on top.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Baked Mac and Cheese

• Cheese Variety Matters: Using a mix of cheeses balances creaminess and flavor. Havarti melts smoothly, cheddar adds sharpness, fontina brings a mild nutty flavor, and brie adds luxurious richness.
• Don’t Skip the Brie: This cheese might seem fancy, but it’s the secret ingredient that elevates your mac and cheese to restaurant-quality creaminess.
• Use Whole Milk: Whole milk ensures the sauce remains rich without becoming overly heavy or greasy.
• Let It Rest: Allow the mac and cheese to rest for 5 minutes after baking. This helps it set slightly and makes serving easier.
• Customize Your Pasta: While shells or elbow macaroni work best for holding cheese sauce, feel free to try cavatappi or rotini for a twist.
• Adjust Spices: The cayenne pepper adds subtle heat, but you can increase or omit it depending on your preference.
• Butter Temperature: Make sure your butter is soft and room temperature before mixing with Ritz crackers for an even, crumbly topping.

Nutrition Information and Serving Size

While this baked mac and cheese is indulgent, it also packs protein and calcium thanks to the cheese content. Here’s a rough nutritional estimate per serving (assuming 8 servings):

• Calories: ~450–500
• Protein: 18–22 grams
• Fat: 25–30 grams (mainly from cheese and butter)
• Carbohydrates: 40–45 grams
• Calcium: High (thanks to the cheese and milk)

If you’re watching calories or fat, consider swapping half the butter with a lighter alternative or using reduced-fat cheese, but keep in mind the texture and flavor may change.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with Crunchy Ritz Topping

What makes this mac and cheese recipe creamy and flavorful?

The secret lies in the blend of cheeses and the addition of sour cream and whole milk. The multiple cheeses melt into a velvety sauce with varied depth, while the sour cream adds a subtle tang that balances richness.

Can I use different cheeses if I don’t have these on hand?

Absolutely! You can substitute with cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, gouda, or even Swiss. Just aim for a balance of creamy and sharp flavors.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 3 days for best taste and texture. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to prevent drying out.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and swap the Ritz crackers for gluten-free cracker crumbs or panko. The rest of the recipe remains the same.

Is this recipe suitable for large gatherings?

Definitely. This recipe scales well. For bigger groups, double or triple the ingredients and use a larger baking dish. Just adjust baking times accordingly.

Conclusion: Why You Should Try This Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with Crunchy Ritz Topping Today

You’re just a few steps away from making one of the most satisfying comfort foods you’ll ever taste. This creamy baked mac and cheese with a crunchy Ritz topping is the perfect way to treat yourself, your family, or your guests to a meal that’s both indulgent and inviting. The luscious cheese blend paired with the crispy, buttery crust hits all the right notes for comfort and flavor.

Give this recipe a try, and you’ll find it becoming a staple in your home cooking — a dish everyone looks forward to on chilly nights, celebrations, or anytime you want a little cheesy love. Don’t forget to share your version or any creative twists you make in the comments. Happy cooking!

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