Baked Macaroni
Creamy baked macaroni combining Velveeta and sharp Cheddar cheeses, baked to perfection with a crispy cheese topping—comfort food ideal for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- While macaroni is hot, add butter and sour cream; stir to combine.
- In a separate saucepan, melt evaporated milk and Velveeta cheese together.
- Place cooked macaroni into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Pour the cheese and milk mixture over the macaroni.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
- Sprinkle grated sharp Cheddar cheese on top.
- Return to the oven until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or using cream cheese as a substitution for some of the sour cream. You can also mix in cooked vegetables like broccoli or peas for added nutrition. If you prefer a sharper flavor, try using aged Cheddar cheese instead of regular sharp Cheddar.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Macaroni pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside proteins like grilled chicken or meatloaf for a hearty dinner. For a vegetarian option, serve with a side of Broccoli Casserole With Water Chestnuts to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F, cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Macaroni contains roughly 593 calories, with 9g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 519mg per serving (23% 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 use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with a variety of cheeses such as Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for added flavor. Just make sure to maintain the total volume of cheese to ensure the sauce remains creamy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese mixture a day in advance. Assemble everything in the casserole dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this Baked Macaroni can be frozen. Assemble the dish, but do not bake it. Cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
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).