Baked Mac and Cheese uses a variety of cheeses that are both stacked in the plate and melted into a thick and creamy cheese sauce for the ultimate in cheesy delight! This meal is ideal for a hearty supper or as a holiday side dish.
This old-fashioned, homemade side dish goes well with everything from Thanksgiving turkey to Christmas ham, fried chicken to meatloaf and pork chops.
Table of Contents
Tools for this recipe
Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipes
Mac and cheese baked in the oven. It’s almost the worldwide comfort food, yet there are SO many different versions! In fact, I nearly didn’t post this recipe because there are SO many mac and cheese recipes out there, and most people have a favorite method to make it.
Of course, there is no “right” or “wrong” method to cook mac & cheese, so I’m here to share how I like to make it (and how my family does, too).
How to Make Baked Mac and Cheese
Step 1. Boil the Pasta
Start by boiling the pasta of your choice, and then drain it.
Step 2. Craft the Cheese Sauce
Create the cheese sauce by combining a fat, like butter, with starch (flour). Whisk in the milk products to achieve a creamy consistency.
Step 3. Thicken the Sauce
Cook the sauce until it becomes wonderfully thick and velvety.
Step 4. Introduce the Cheeses
Add the shredded cheeses, stirring them in until they melt beautifully into the sauce.
Step 5. Marriage of Cheese Sauce and Pasta
Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked pasta, ensuring every noodle gets a cheesy hug.
Step 6. Layering in a Baking Dish
Transfer half of the mac and cheese into a baking dish, and sprinkle it generously with more shredded cheese.
Step 7. Double Layers
Now, layer on the rest of the mac and cheese and, of course, add another generous layer of shredded cheese on top.
Step 8. Baking
Pop it in the oven to bake, and get ready to Savor every bite of your delicious creation!
Remember, making homemade mac and cheese can be a rewarding culinary adventure, and these simple steps will lead you to cheesy perfection.
Recipe Video:
Is it necessary to bake mac and cheese?
Creamy mac and cheese recipes that kick off with a luscious roux-based sauce (just like this one) don’t require any oven time before they hit your plate. A creamy stovetop mac and cheese is crafted to go directly from the pot to your plate, no oven detour needed. If you prefer, you can even skip the baking step entirely, resulting in an extra saucy delight.
On the flip side, when it comes to Southern-style mac and cheese recipes, a trip to the oven is a must. Baking serves the dual purpose of cooking the egg and helping the dish achieve that perfect, set consistency that’s a hallmark of this beloved classic.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni or your preferred pasta shape
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
- Cook the pasta until it’s firm to the bite, following the instructions on the package. Drain and set aside.
- Heat the butter in a sizable saucepan over medium heat until it’s fully melted. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes a light golden colour.
- While whisking, gradually pour in the milk. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
- Reduce the heat to low and add in 3 cups of the sharp cheddar cheese and all of the mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt, pepper, paprika (if using), and garlic powder. Adjust the seasonings to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is well coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
- Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the pasta, followed by a generous layer of breadcrumbs.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown, and the cheese is bubbling.
- Allow it to cool for a few minutes after you remove it from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve your creamy baked mac and cheese while it’s hot and enjoy this comforting classic!
This creamy baked mac and cheese recipe will surely satisfy your cravings for cheesy goodness.
Enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
| Nutrition Facts | Amount per Serving |
| Serving Size | 1 serving |
| Calories | 587 |
| Total Fat | 33g |
| – Saturated Fat | 20g |
| – Trans Fat | 1g |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
| Sodium | 672mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 45g |
| – Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| – Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 27g |
Enjoy your delicious Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese!
Serving Suggestions for Baked Mac and Cheese
Treat your family to this effortless oven-baked mac and cheese, perfect for both lunch and dinner, and watch their faces light up with pure delight. It’s the epitome of comfort food! To complete the experience, consider serving it alongside options like a refreshing house salad, a vibrant tomato salad, a classic Caesar salad, or delectable sides such as roasted broccoli, Southern-style green beans, or flavourful collard greens. And for that extra touch of warmth and satisfaction, don’t forget to set out a basket filled with flaky biscuits, blueberry muffins, apple bread, cornbread, or corn sticks to round out the meal in style.
Health Benefits of Baked Mac and Cheese
- Good Source of Protein: This dish provides a substantial amount of protein, with 27g per serving. Protein plays a vital role in constructing and mending body tissues.
- Calcium-Rich: Thanks to the cheese and milk, this mac and cheese recipe is rich in calcium. Calcium is crucial for maintaining robust bones and healthy teeth.
- Moderate Fiber Content: With 2g of dietary fiber per serving, this dish contributes to your daily fiber intake, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
- Moderate Calories: Each serving contains 587 calories, making it a satisfying and energy-rich meal option. It is critical to consume it in moderation as part of a healthy diet.
- Good Source of Vitamins: Fresh parsley, used as a garnish, adds a touch of freshness and provides vitamins like vitamin K and vitamin C.
- Comfort Food: While not necessarily a health benefit, comfort foods like mac and cheese can provide emotional satisfaction and a sense of well-being.
Note: The nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used and serving sizes. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese as an occasional treat, and consider incorporating it into a balanced diet with a variety of nutrient-rich foods for overall health and well-being.
Storage and Reheating Guide for Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
So, you’ve crafted a glorious masterpiece of Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese, and now you’re faced with the age-old question: what to do with the leftovers? Fear not, cheese enthusiasts; we’ve got your storage and reheating game plan right here.
Storage:
- Cooling Down the Cheese Extravaganza:
Before even thinking about storage, let your mac and cheese cool down a bit. We know it’s tempting to dive in right away, but patience is key.
2. Refrigeration Wisdom:
Once your cheesy delight has reached a manageable temperature, transfer any leftovers into a sealed container. Airtight is the name of the game to keep that cheesy goodness intact.
3. Fridge Placement:
Pop that container into the refrigerator promptly. We’re aiming for a chilly environment to slow down any potential cheese-related rebellion.
4. Shelf-Life Rules:
Your creamy creation can hold its charm for about 2-3 days in the fridge. After that, the magic might start to fade.
Reheating:
Now, the time has come to resurrect the cheesy glory. Here are your reheating options:
- Microwave Magic:
For a quick fix, use the microwave. Cover your mac and cheese with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat it in 30-second bursts, giving it a stir between sessions until it’s back to melty perfection.
2. Stovetop Symphony:
If you’re feeling a bit more patient, opt for the stovetop. Reheat gently over low-medium heat in a pan, stirring frequently to maintain that creamy consistency.
3. Oven Extravaganza:
Prefer a more theatrical approach? Transfer your mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and warm it at 350°F (175°C) until heated. This method takes a bit longer but ensures an even reheating.
A Word of Wisdom:
Remember, the key to reheating success is not just in the cooking; it’s in the enjoyment. Each bite should be as delightful as the first, so choose your reheating method wisely.
Final Notes:
- Enjoy the leftovers within the suggested timeframe for optimal flavor.
- Experiment with additional toppings or cheese if you’re feeling adventurous during reheating.
- Consider sharing with friends or family; cheesy delights are best enjoyed together.
- There you have it, the secret to keeping your Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese experience as fresh and delightful as the first bite. Now, go forth, reheat with confidence, and savor every cheesy moment! 🧀
Mac and Cheese storage
To keep any leftovers fresh, make sure to refrigerate them and seal them tightly. Your mac and cheese will stay good in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
When you’re ready to reheat it, add a touch of milk or cream and microwave it with a loose cover of plastic wrap. Remember to give it a good stir at regular intervals as it warms up for that delicious, creamy consistency.
FAQ’s
Q. What cheeses are best for baked mac and cheese?
A mix of sharp cheddar, Gruyere, and mozzarella works wonderfully. You can also add Parmesan for extra flavor or experiment with other melty cheeses like Monterey Jack or fontina.
Q. How do you keep baked mac and cheese creamy?
Use a roux-based cheese sauce with plenty of milk or cream, and avoid overbaking. Adding a bit of cream cheese to the sauce can also help maintain a silky texture.
Q. Can I prepare baked mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake it when ready, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold.
Q. What toppings work well on baked mac and cheese?
Classic breadcrumbs are always a hit. You can also use crushed crackers, panko mixed with butter, or even crispy bacon bits for a flavorful twist.
Q. Can I freeze baked mac and cheese?
Yes, it freezes well. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Reheat from frozen at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 1 hour.
Q. How can I add extra flavor to baked mac and cheese?
Mix in garlic powder, paprika, Dijon mustard, or hot sauce to the cheese sauce. You can also stir in cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or sautéed vegetables like broccoli or spinach.
