Oven Baked Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy baked macaroni with a blend of mild and sharp cheeses, perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings, offering rich flavors and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare a medium-sized oblong glass baking dish or pan.
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, shredded mild cheese, shredded sharp cheese, evaporated milk, and raw eggs.
- Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of cream cheese or sour cream to the mixture. You can also substitute half of the mild cheese with a different cheese like Gouda or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor twist. To enhance the dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking for extra crunch.
Serving Suggestions
This baked macaroni and cheese pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve alongside grilled sausages or barbecue chicken. It also makes a delightful side dish for family gatherings or potlucks, complementing American recipes perfectly.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the macaroni and cheese in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Baked Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 640 calories, with 15g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (37% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and protein (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 827mg per serving (36% 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 dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of evaporated milk?
If you don't have evaporated milk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a bit of cream to achieve a similar richness. Alternatively, a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk can work, but it may alter the flavor slightly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the cheese mixture. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of mild cheese for a kick that complements the richness of the dish.
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).