Basic Baked Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy baked macaroni with sharp cheddar, ideal for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings, offering rich flavors and a golden baked top.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- In a medium saucepan, melt margarine or butter.
- Stir in flour, dry mustard, and salt.
- Gradually stir in milk.
- Cook and stir until mixture thickens slightly and coats the spoon, then remove from heat.
- Add 1 1/2 cups of shredded sharp Cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
- Stir in cooked macaroni.
- Turn mixture into a greased 1 1/2-quart shallow baking dish.
- Top with remaining cheese.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier mac and cheese, consider adding a splash of cream or substituting half of the milk with evaporated milk. If you're out of sharp Cheddar, try mixing in some Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. To enhance the dish, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this baked macaroni and cheese alongside a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or barbecue for a hearty feast. For a comforting family dinner, consider serving with warm garlic bread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, then bake at 350°F until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basic Baked Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 285 calories, with 14g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (33% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (23% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1290mg per serving (56% 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! While sharp Cheddar is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, Fontina, or even a blend of cheeses. Just ensure that the total amount remains the same for the desired creaminess.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the macaroni and cheese ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this baked macaroni and cheese gluten-free, substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Additionally, you can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
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).