Creamy Macaroni And Cheese Bake
Creamy macaroni and cheese baked to perfection with sharp cheddar and a crispy breadcrumb topping, ideal for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions.
- Rinse the cooked macaroni in cold water and drain well.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour, salt, and pepper to the melted butter, stirring constantly to make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded Cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and transfer to a baking dish.
- Sprinkle the dry bread crumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or sour cream to the cheese sauce. If you want to spice it up, try mixing in some diced jalapeños or cooked bacon. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with a blend of Gruyère and Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. Ensure not to overcook the macaroni; it should be al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this creamy macaroni and cheese bake as a comforting main dish or as a hearty side. It pairs beautifully with a crisp salad like Low-Fat E.Z. Mix Up Salad or steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or a simple roasted meat. It’s also a great accompaniment to dishes like Carrots With Butter.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the macaroni and cheese in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. Adding a splash of milk can help restore creaminess during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Macaroni And Cheese Bake contains roughly 1192 calories, with 5g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 125g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1910mg per serving (83% 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 macaroni and cheese bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese and assemble it in the baking dish a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will be going into the oven cold.
What can I add to enhance the flavor of the cheese sauce?
You can enhance the cheese sauce by adding spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika. For an extra cheesy flavor, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese or using a combination of cheese varieties. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can also add a nice touch.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta made from rice or corn. Additionally, use a gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour for the roux. This way, you can still enjoy a delicious creamy macaroni and cheese bake without gluten.
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).