Baked Macaroni With Cheese
Creamy baked macaroni with melted cheese, seasoned with paprika and mustard, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with rich, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni as directed on the package.
- Rinse and drain the cooked macaroni.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat.
- Stir in flour, salt, pepper, dry mustard, and paprika until well blended.
- Gradually add milk, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and boils.
- Add grated cheese and Worcestershire sauce, stirring until the cheese has melted.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the drained macaroni.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 2-quart baking dish.
- Bake in a moderately hot oven at 400°F for about 20-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of cream or using a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack. If you want to boost flavor, try incorporating cooked bacon or sautéed onions. If you're short on time, pre-cooked macaroni can be used. This dish can also be made with gluten-free pasta for a delicious alternative in vegetarian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked macaroni with cheese as a comforting main dish alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. It pairs beautifully with Baked String Beans With Cheese for a delightful meal. For a more filling option, consider serving it with grilled chicken or meatloaf. A side of garlic bread can also complement this cheesy dish perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover baked macaroni with cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. For quicker reheating, use a microwave, but cover it to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Macaroni With Cheese contains roughly 2378 calories, with 5g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 254g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1943mg per serving (84% 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 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 to ensure even cooking.
What type of cheese works best?
Sharp cheddar is traditional, but feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or fontina for a different flavor profile. A combination of cheeses can enhance the overall taste, making it even more delicious.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can mix in cooked vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to adjust baking time slightly if adding moisture-rich vegetables to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.
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).