Baked Mac And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy baked macaroni with a crunchy bread crumb topping, perfect for comfort food lovers and family dinners, offering rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions and drain.
- Melt butter in a heavy saucepan.
- Blend in flour.
- Slowly stir in milk and cook, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens.
- Add salt, pepper, and grated cheese, stirring until cheese melts.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and transfer to a buttered 1-quart casserole.
- Mix bread crumbs with melted butter.
- Sprinkle bread crumb mixture over the macaroni.
- Bake in a 400° oven for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or using a mix of cheeses such as Gruyère or Monterey Jack alongside the Cheddar. You can also use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diets. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce. For convenience, prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
Serving Suggestions
Baked mac and cheese pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or a slice of hearty bread for a filling dinner. This dish also makes a great side for barbecues or potlucks, complementing American recipes like ribs or burgers.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover baked mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place it in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, warming it at 350°F for about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to add a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Mac And Cheese contains roughly 968 calories, with 14g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1859mg per serving (81% 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 baked mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. This allows for even cooking.
What can I substitute for elbow macaroni?
You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or shells. Whole Wheat Buns can also be used if you want to create a baked mac and cheese with a twist. Just ensure the cooking time aligns with the pasta you choose.
How can I make my mac and cheese extra cheesy?
To enhance the cheesiness, consider mixing in additional cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for a gooey texture. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking for a deliciously cheesy crust. Just remember to adjust the milk accordingly to maintain the sauce's consistency.
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).