Best Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe with Egg for Creamy Goodness

Frank Turner MD

On 12/20/2025, 2:30:09 AM

Discover the ultimate baked mac and cheese recipe with egg for a creamy, rich dish. Easy steps, tips, and variations included. Perfect for any meal!

Table of Contents

Adding egg to baked mac and cheese enhances its creaminess, texture, and structure. The egg acts as a binder, making the dish richer and helping it hold its shape. This guide covers the benefits of using eggs, simple ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for perfect results, and variations to customize your dish.

Question

Answer

Why add egg to baked mac and cheese?

Eggs make the dish creamier, help bind the sauce to the pasta, and improve texture.

How many eggs should I use?

Most recipes call for 1-2 large eggs for a standard batch.

Can I customize the recipe?

Yes, you can add proteins, veggies, different cheeses, or toppings.

How do I prevent the eggs from scrambling?

Temper the eggs by slowly mixing in warm cheese sauce before adding them.

What’s the best baking temperature?

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for even cooking and a golden top.

Why Add Egg to Baked Mac and Cheese?

Adding egg to baked mac and cheese makes the dish richer and creamier.

Eggs act as a binder, helping the cheese sauce cling to the pasta better.

They also give the mac and cheese a smoother, custard-like texture.

If you want a firmer dish, eggs help set the mac and cheese so it holds its shape when served.

Benefits of Adding Egg

  • Creamier texture: Eggs blend with the cheese sauce for a velvety finish.
  • Better structure: Prevents the dish from being too runny.
  • Rich flavor: Adds depth to the cheesy taste.
  • Golden top: Helps with browning when baked.

Most recipes use 1-2 eggs for a standard batch. Whisk them into the cheese sauce before mixing with pasta.

For extra richness, some recipes call for an egg wash on top before baking.

Simple Ingredients for the Best Baked Mac and Cheese with Egg

A great baked mac and cheese with egg starts with basic ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients

  • Elbow macaroni – 12 oz (340g), cooked al dente
  • Cheese – 2 cups shredded (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
  • Eggs – 2 large, beaten
  • Milk – 1 ½ cups (whole milk works best)
  • Butter – 3 tbsp, melted
  • Flour – 3 tbsp (for the roux)
  • Salt & pepper – to taste

Optional Add-Ins

  • Breadcrumbs – for a crispy topping
  • Mustard powder – for extra flavor
  • Garlic powder – for a savory kick
  • Paprika – for a smoky touch

For a richer dish, use a mix of cheeses like cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack.

If you want extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or evaporated milk.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Follow these simple steps for the creamiest baked mac and cheese with egg.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  • Boil 12 oz (340g) elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente.
  • Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

  • Melt 3 tbsp butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • Whisk in 3 tbsp flour to form a roux.
  • Slowly pour in 1 ½ cups milk, stirring constantly.
  • Cook until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
  • Stir in 2 cups shredded cheese until melted.

Step 3: Add the Egg

  • Beat 2 large eggs in a small bowl.
  • Temper the eggs by slowly mixing in a little warm cheese sauce.
  • Pour the egg mixture back into the saucepan and stir well.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

  • Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce.
  • Transfer to a greased baking dish.
  • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  • Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

For extra crispiness, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking.

Tips for Perfectly Baked Mac and Cheese Every Time

Get the best results with these easy tips for baked mac and cheese with egg.

Cook Pasta Just Right

  • Boil pasta al dente—slightly firm—so it doesn’t turn mushy when baked.
  • Rinse with cold water after draining to stop cooking.

Cheese Matters

  • Shred cheese yourself—pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that affect meltiness.
  • Mix cheeses like sharp cheddar for flavor and mozzarella for stretchiness.

Egg Handling

  • Temper eggs by slowly mixing in warm sauce to prevent scrambling.
  • Beat eggs well before adding for a smooth texture.

Baking Tips

  • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for even cooking.
  • Cover with foil first if the top browns too fast.
  • Let it rest 5 minutes before serving so it sets properly.

For extra richness, swap milk for half-and-half or add a splash of cream.

Variations and Add-Ins to Customize Your Dish

Make your baked mac and cheese with egg unique with these easy add-ins.

Protein Boost

  • Cooked bacon – adds smoky crunch
  • Shredded chicken – for a hearty meal
  • Ground beef – makes it extra filling

Veggie Twist

  • Steamed broccoli – adds freshness
  • Sautéed mushrooms – for earthy flavor
  • Diced bell peppers – brings color and crunch

Cheese Swaps

  • Pepper Jack – for a spicy kick
  • Gruyère – nutty and rich
  • Blue cheese – bold and tangy

Topping Ideas

  • Crushed Ritz crackers – buttery crunch
  • Panko breadcrumbs – extra crispy
  • Fried onions – savory crunch

Mix and match to create your perfect baked mac and cheese with egg.