Homemade Baked Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy homemade baked macaroni and cheese with rich cheese sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings, featuring melted cheddar or Colby cheese.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a medium saucepan.
- Add self-rising flour and mix well until smooth.
- Pour in milk and stir continuously over medium heat until thickened.
- Add a large jar of Cheez Whiz and stir until melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place drained cooked macaroni in a baking dish.
- Pour cheese sauce over the macaroni and mix well.
- Arrange slices of cheese on top of the macaroni mixture.
- Bake at 350°F until the cheese is light brown and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese to the cheese sauce. If you want a smoky flavor, use smoked Gouda in place of some of the cheese. You can also substitute regular flour for self-rising flour by adding baking powder and salt to your mixture. This dish can also benefit from a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne for added warmth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your baked macaroni and cheese as a comforting main dish, or pair it with sides like Monterey Green Beans for a balanced meal. A fresh green salad or garlic bread complements it well. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, where it is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Homemade Baked Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 1007 calories, with 23g protein, 181g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (72% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and calcium (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 995mg per serving (43% 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 for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Colby or Cheddar are traditional, feel free to experiment with your favorites like mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicy twist. Mixing different cheeses can create a unique flavor profile that enhances your baked macaroni and cheese.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian! To maintain its vegetarian status, just ensure that the cheese you use is not made with animal rennet. You can also enhance the dish by adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the macaroni and cheese ahead of time. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).