There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, bubbling dish of macaroni and cheese fresh out of the oven. This recipe for Easy Baked Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden, crispy layer that’s hard to resist. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just as a midweek indulgence, it’s the kind of meal that brings people together around the table.
Growing up, macaroni and cheese was always a special treat in our household. Whether it was a snowy winter night or a rainy Saturday afternoon, this dish was like a warm hug in food form. Over time, I’ve refined the recipe to balance rich creaminess with just the right amount of cheesiness, and this baked version is my absolute favorite. It’s a recipe that anyone can master, whether you’re an experienced home cook or a total beginner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike.
- Easy to Make: Straightforward steps with minimal fuss.
- Customizable: Add your favorite cheeses or mix-ins for a personal touch.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping ahead and reheating when needed.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Macaroni: 300g (or any small pasta shape)
- Butter: 4 tablespoons
- All-Purpose Flour: 4 tablespoons
- Milk: 3 cups (whole or 2%)
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated
- Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Pepper: ½ teaspoon (or to taste)
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup, for topping
- Turkey Ham (Optional): 1 cup, diced
How to Make Easy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until just al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a light golden color. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Let the sauce thicken for 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted. Add the Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, tasting to adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated. If using turkey ham, fold it in at this stage for a delicious savory boost.
5. Assemble and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy finish.
6. Bake:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair with a fresh side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Helpful Tips:
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for different flavors.
- Breadcrumbs: For an extra crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter before sprinkling.
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish up to step 5 and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
Recipe Details:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Notes:
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and all-purpose flour.
- To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I freeze baked macaroni and cheese?
Yes! Assemble the dish and freeze it unbaked. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
What can I add to make this dish even heartier?
You can add cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach, or even cooked beef sausage slices for extra protein.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Related Recipes:
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Conclusion:
This Easy Baked Macaroni and Cheese is the epitome of comfort food—rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying. It’s a dish that feels like home with every bite, and it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick dinner or preparing it for a special occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
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Easy Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Description
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, bubbling dish of macaroni and cheese fresh out of the oven. This recipe for Easy Baked Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden, crispy layer that’s hard to resist. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or just as a midweek indulgence, it’s the kind of meal that brings people together around the table.
Growing up, macaroni and cheese was always a special treat in our household. Whether it was a snowy winter night or a rainy Saturday afternoon, this dish was like a warm hug in food form. Over time, I’ve refined the recipe to balance rich creaminess with just the right amount of cheesiness, and this baked version is my absolute favorite. It’s a recipe that anyone can master, whether you’re an experienced home cook or a total beginner.
Ingredients
- Macaroni: 300g (or any small pasta shape)
- Butter: 4 tablespoons
- All-Purpose Flour: 4 tablespoons
- Milk: 3 cups (whole or 2%)
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
- Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, grated
- Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
- Pepper: ½ teaspoon (or to taste)
- Breadcrumbs: 1 cup, for topping
- Turkey Ham (Optional): 1 cup, diced
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until just al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a light golden color. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Let the sauce thicken for 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted. Add the Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, tasting to adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated. If using turkey ham, fold it in at this stage for a delicious savory boost.
5. Assemble and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy finish.
6. Bake:
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair with a fresh side salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and all-purpose flour.
- To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.