Baked Cheddar Macaroni
Creamy and cheesy baked macaroni with a smooth cheddar sauce, perfect comfort food for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering warm, savory flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, add melted butter, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
- Gradually add milk, cooking the mixture over medium heat and stirring constantly until thickened.
- Add grated cheddar cheese and cook until melted and smooth.
- Mix the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 8-inch baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, try adding a splash of cream to the cheese sauce. If you don’t have elbow macaroni, any small pasta shape like shells or penne would work well. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor. Don't forget to season your pasta water for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Cheddar Macaroni is a perfect standalone dish but pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside grilled chicken or BBQ ribs. You could also enjoy it with a slice of warm bread for a cozy dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place the macaroni in a baking dish and cover it with foil to prevent drying out. Bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through, adding a little extra cheese on top for a delicious crust.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Cheddar Macaroni contains roughly 324 calories, with 7g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), iron (24% of the Daily Value), and calcium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1992mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
Can I freeze Baked Cheddar Macaroni?
Absolutely! To freeze, cool the baked macaroni completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and you may need to add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
What can I add to make this dish more nutritious?
To boost the nutrition of your Baked Cheddar Macaroni, consider mixing in steamed broccoli, spinach, or even cooked chicken. You can also substitute whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. For a twist, try adding some spices or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).