Easy Baked Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy baked macaroni with a rich custard texture, perfect for family dinners or comfort food cravings, customizable with ham for a hearty meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soft melt margarine in a 7 x 11-inch baking dish.
- Stir in uncooked macaroni; coat well.
- Add salt, pepper, and cheese; mix well and spread evenly.
- Slowly pour in milk.
- With the bottom of a spoon, push macaroni down under the milk.
- Bake, uncovered, at 325°F for 1 hour or until macaroni is done and custard is set.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using a combination of sharp and mild Cheddar cheese. If you prefer a richer flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of hot sauce. You can substitute the elbow macaroni with any pasta shape you have on hand, such as cavatappi or rotini. For a twist, try adding cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Baked Macaroni and Cheese pairs beautifully with a crisp garden salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal. For added crunch, serve with a side of garlic bread or Cornmeal English Muffins. Consider offering a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a drizzle of hot sauce on top for an extra flavor boost.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick snack.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Baked Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 18 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1179mg per serving (51% 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 a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Cheddar is traditional, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. Mixing cheeses can create a more complex taste and add depth to your baked macaroni and cheese.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese ahead of time. Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it is heated through.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Easy Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a vegetarian recipe, making it perfect for meatless meals. Just ensure that your cheese does not contain any animal rennet if you're catering to strict vegetarian diets.
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).