If you love rich, creamy, baked macaroni and cheese, this Gladys Knight Mac And Cheese recipe will quickly become your favorite comfort food. Inspired by the soulful cooking style of Gladys Knight, this dish is warm, indulgent, and packed with layers of cheesy flavor. It’s the kind of classic baked mac and cheese that brings family and friends together around the table.
This recipe combines tender elbow macaroni, creamy milk and heavy cream, and a blend of Velveeta, Colby Jack, and cheddar cheeses for the ultimate cheesy texture. It’s baked until golden, bubbly, and perfectly set.
Whether you’re preparing a Sunday dinner, holiday feast, potluck dish, or weeknight comfort meal, this baked mac and cheese recipe is always a crowd-pleaser. Best of all, it’s simple, easy to follow, and made with everyday ingredients.
What Is Gladys Knight Mac And Cheese?
Gladys Knight Mac And Cheese is a rich, Southern-style baked macaroni and cheese recipe made with multiple cheeses, cream, milk, and eggs for structure. Unlike stovetop mac and cheese, this version is baked in the oven, giving it a firm yet creamy texture.
The combination of Velveeta and shredded cheeses creates a smooth and creamy sauce, while eggs help the casserole set beautifully as it bakes. The result is a comforting, sliceable mac and cheese with a golden cheesy top.
This dish reflects the comforting flavors often found in traditional Southern kitchens — creamy, flavorful, and satisfying.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Here’s why this Gladys Knight Mac And Cheese recipe stands out:
- Ultra creamy and rich texture
- Made with three types of cheese
- Perfect for holidays and special gatherings
- Easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions
- Family-friendly comfort food
- Great make-ahead dish
If you’re searching for the best baked mac and cheese recipe, this one checks all the boxes.
Equipment’s
You’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Stove
- Large pan or pot
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
- 9-inch baking pan
- Oven
Ingredients With Amounts
Here are the ingredients needed to make Gladys Knight Mac And Cheese:
- 4 ½ cups BARILLA Elbows Macaroni Pasta, Recommended
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 2 ¼ cups milk
- 12 oz Velveeta Cheese, Shredded, Recommended
- 1 ½ cups Colby & Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- 1 ½ cups Kraft Cheddar Cheese, Shredded, Recommended
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
These ingredients combine to create a creamy, cheesy baked macaroni dish with rich flavor and smooth texture.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare the best Gladys Knight Mac And Cheese:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your mac and cheese bakes evenly once assembled.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (firm but tender). Do not overcook, as the pasta will continue cooking in the oven.
Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Heavy cream
- Milk
- Velveeta cheese
- Colby & Monterey Jack cheese
- Cheddar cheese
Mix well until evenly combined.
Add salt and black pepper according to your taste.
Step 4: Add the Eggs
Crack the eggs into the cheese mixture and whisk thoroughly. The eggs will help bind the dish and create that classic baked texture.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Lightly grease a 9-inch baking pan with cooking spray or oil.
Add the drained macaroni to the baking pan. Pour the cheese mixture over the pasta and gently stir to combine everything evenly.
Step 6: Bake
Place the pan in the oven and bake at 325–350°F for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
Allow the mac and cheese to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Gladys Knight Mac And Cheese while warm and creamy!
Notes
- Do not overcook the pasta before baking.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and texture.
- Let the dish rest after baking to help it firm up.
- Adjust salt carefully, especially since some cheeses are already salty.
Variations
You can customize this Gladys Knight Mac And Cheese recipe in many ways:
1. Add Smoked Flavor
Use smoked cheddar cheese for a deeper flavor.
2. Add Meat
Mix in cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or ground beef for a heartier dish.
3. Make It Spicy
Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
4. Extra Crunchy Top
Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking for a crispy crust.
Tips
- Use room-temperature eggs for better mixing.
- Warm the milk slightly before combining to prevent curdling.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking.
- If the top browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil.
These small tips make a big difference in achieving perfect baked mac and cheese every time.
What To Serve With Gladys Knight Mac And Cheese?
This dish pairs wonderfully with:
- Fried chicken
- Grilled barbecue ribs
- Baked turkey
- Collard greens
- Garden salad
- Cornbread
Because it’s rich and creamy, serving it with vegetables or grilled meats balances the meal beautifully.
How To Store Gladys Knight Mac And Cheese?
Refrigeration
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
You can freeze baked mac and cheese for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. Add a splash of milk before reheating to restore creaminess.
Gladys Knight Mac And Cheese Recipe
Equipment & Tools
- Stove
- Large pan or pot
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden Spoon
- 9-inch baking pan
- Oven
Ingredients
- 4 ½ cups BARILLA Elbows Macaroni Pasta, Recommended such as Barilla
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 3 large eggs
- 2 ¼ cups milk
- 12 oz Velveeta Cheese, Shredded, Recommended shredded
- 1 ½ cups Colby & Monterey Jack cheese shredded
- 1 ½ cups Kraft Cheddar Cheese, Shredded, Recommended shredded
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your mac and cheese bakes evenly once assembled.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (firm but tender). Do not overcook, as the pasta will continue cooking in the oven.
- Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Heavy cream
- Milk
- Velveeta cheese
- Colby & Monterey Jack cheese
- Cheddar cheese
- Mix well until evenly combined.
- Add salt and black pepper according to your taste.
- Crack the eggs into the cheese mixture and whisk thoroughly. The eggs will help bind the dish and create that classic baked texture.
- Lightly grease a 9-inch baking pan with cooking spray or oil.
- Add the drained macaroni to the baking pan. Pour the cheese mixture over the pasta and gently stir to combine everything evenly.
- Place the pan in the oven and bake at 325–350°F for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Allow the mac and cheese to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy your homemade Gladys Knight Mac And Cheese while warm and creamy!
Notes
Nutrition
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Possible To Make Gladys Knight Mac And Cheese Be Made Ahead Of Time?
It is possible, yes. Yet, if you choose this course, you’ll be tempted to add more cheese sauce to the dish to prevent drying it out.
Are There Any Possibilities To Making Gladys Knight Mac And Cheese Frozen?
Yes, the mac and cheese can be frozen. Make the preparation as per the instructions previously, and stop just before baking. Securely wrapped in plastic wrap prior to placing in the freezer for three months.
Can I Store Any Leftovers In The Refrigerator?
The leftovers from this recipe can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container covered in a wrapper. It is important to note the fact that mac and cheese taste ideal when it is fresh, and it may dry out if eaten at a later time.
What Is The Best Pasta For Gladys Knight Mac And Cheese?
My personal favorite pasta to make mac and cheese are elbow macaroni noodles. However, any pasta that is small can be used in this recipe.
What Is The Best Cheese For Gladys Knight Mac And Cheese?
The best ones are described in the recipe. However, you could also use Gouda, sharp cheddar, and even cheese sauce if wanted. The most suitable cheese to use for this recipe is block cheese that has been freshly grated.
How Long Will Gladys Knight Mac And Cheese Keep In The Refrigerator?
To get the best results, you can keep your mac and cheese in the refrigerator for no longer than 3 days.
What Should You Serve With Gladys Knight Macaroni and Cheese?
The mac and cheese dish is usually thought of as the main course. However, it could be served as an appetizer. If you’re serving your mac and cheese as a primary meal you can serve it with fruit or vegetable or salad. If you’re serving the macaroni and cheese as a side dish you could serve it with the meat that you prefer.
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Conclusion
Gladys Knight Mac And Cheese is a rich, creamy, baked comfort food that delivers classic Southern flavor in every bite. With its combination of Velveeta, Colby Jack, cheddar, cream, milk, and eggs, this dish turns simple macaroni into a golden, bubbly masterpiece.
It’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, potlucks, and special occasions. Easy to prepare and always satisfying, this baked mac and cheese recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your home.
Make it once, and it will earn a permanent place in your comfort food collection.
