Creamy mac and cheese is not just a dish; it's a timeless classic that has won the hearts and taste buds of people of all ages. It's the kind of family - friendly dinner recipe that can turn an ordinary evening into a memorable one. Once you serve this delicious baked mac and cheese, you'll find everyone at the table fighting over the last bite!

Let's start with the basics. The foundation of any great mac and cheese is, of course, the pasta. For this recipe, we recommend using elbow macaroni. Its small, tubular shape is perfect for holding onto the cheesy sauce. Begin by boiling the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted water. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven later. This usually takes around 8 - 10 minutes, but always check the package instructions for the most accurate timing.

Now, let's move on to the star of the show - the cheese sauce. Our recipe includes cheddar cheese soup, which adds a rich, tangy flavor. Cheddar is known for its sharpness and ability to melt smoothly, creating a velvety texture. To make the sauce even more decadent, we'll also be adding eggs. The eggs act as a binder and give the sauce an extra - rich and creamy consistency.

In a medium - sized saucepan, heat the cheddar cheese soup over medium - low heat. Stir constantly to prevent it from burning. As the soup warms up, it will start to become more fluid. Crack the eggs into a small bowl and whisk them gently. Slowly pour the whisked eggs into the warm cheddar cheese soup, whisking continuously. This gradual addition helps to prevent the eggs from scrambling. Keep whisking until the sauce is well - combined and has a smooth, creamy texture.

Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well and transfer it to a large mixing bowl. Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and use a wooden spoon or spatula to gently combine them. Make sure each piece of pasta is coated evenly with the cheesy goodness. You can also add a little bit of extra shredded cheddar cheese on top for an added cheesy crust.

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to the greased baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula. If you like, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 - 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

While the mac and cheese is baking, you can set the table and prepare any side dishes. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing makes a great accompaniment to this rich and hearty meal. The freshness of the salad helps to balance out the creaminess of the mac and cheese.

When the timer goes off, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. The mac and cheese will continue to set as it cools slightly. Serve it hot, and watch as your family and friends dig in with gusto. The combination of the tender pasta, the rich and creamy cheese sauce, and the crispy top is simply irresistible.

This baked mac and cheese recipe is not only delicious but also easy to make. It's a great option for busy weeknights when you want to serve a comforting and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You can also customize the recipe by adding other ingredients such as bacon bits, broccoli, or ham. The possibilities are endless!

So, the next time you're looking for a family - friendly dinner idea, give this baked mac and cheese recipe a try. It's sure to become a staple in your household, bringing everyone together around the dinner table for a delicious and memorable meal.