World'S Easiest Macaroni And Cheese
A creamy, cheesy macaroni dish that comes together effortlessly, perfect for busy weeknights or comforting family dinners. Rich sharp cheddar pairs with tender pasta in a baked casserole, offering a satisfying meal that appeals to cheese lovers of all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Add uncooked macaroni and stir until macaroni is coated with butter.
- Mix in shredded sharp Cheddar cheese.
- Pour milk over the mixture so that all macaroni is covered.
- Bake at 325°F for 1 hour until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture. You can also substitute the sharp Cheddar with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different taste. If you're looking for a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese. Don't forget to stir halfway through baking for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this macaroni and cheese as a comforting main dish or a delightful side. It pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. For a fun twist, try adding cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms to the dish. If you're looking for more comforting flavors, browse more American recipes for inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a baking dish, add a splash of milk to maintain moisture, and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through, ensuring it stays creamy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of World'S Easiest Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 2466 calories, with 22g protein, 184g carbohydrates, and 183g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (84% of the Daily Value), iron (83% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1088mg per serving (47% 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 gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions, as gluten-free pasta may require less or more time to cook.
How can I make this dish creamier?
To achieve a creamier texture, add an additional cup of cheese or mix in a dollop of cream cheese before baking. You can also stir in some sour cream for added richness.
Can I prepare this macaroni and cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
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).