Name: Easy Baked Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound elbow macaroni; 1/2 cup butter; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 3 cups milk; 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

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Easy Baked Mac and Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Casserole 🧀🔥🤤

1. Introduction

Nothing screams comfort food quite like a warm, cheesy bowl of macaroni and cheese. This easy baked mac and cheese recipe takes the classic dish to the next level with a creamy, rich sauce and a perfectly golden, bubbly top. It’s so simple macaroni and cheese, yet so satisfying, making it a family favorite for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings. Looking for more easy dinner ideas? Check out our main dishes category. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this quick mac and cheese bake is foolproof and guaranteed to impress. You can also find more inspiration in our dinner ideas section.

Delicious easy baked mac and cheese casserole garnished with parsley.

This easy baked mac and cheese recipe uses readily available ingredients and straightforward steps, ensuring that anyone can whip up a batch with ease. Want to know more about us? Find out about us. The beauty of this dish is its versatility – feel free to customize it with your favorite cheeses, add-ins like bacon or vegetables, or a crispy breadcrumb topping. For a similar, but different cheesy bake, consider our cabbage roll casserole. Get ready to enjoy a truly delightful, home-cooked meal with this irresistible creamy baked macaroni. You can find more amazing recipes in the homepage.

2. Ingredients Needed

1 pound elbow macaroni
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups milk
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

3. Equipment Required

Large pot
Colander
Large saucepan
9×13 inch baking dish
Whisk
Measuring cups and spoons

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Macaroni

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well. Make sure you don’t overcook the macaroni; al dente is key!

Elbow macaroni boiling in a pot for easy baked mac and cheese.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese

While the macaroni is cooking, shred 4 cups of cheddar cheese. This easy baked mac and cheese recipe works best with freshly shredded cheese, as it melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese. Trust us, the difference is noticeable! For the best results, avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible.

Cheddar cheese being shredded for easy baked mac and cheese recipe.

Step 3: Make the Roux

In a large saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour until smooth. This creates a roux, which will thicken the cheese sauce for your creamy baked macaroni. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. A well-made roux is the foundation of a silky smooth cheese sauce. Keep stirring to prevent it from burning!

Making a roux with butter and flour for mac and cheese sauce.

Step 4: Create the Cheese Sauce

Gradually whisk in 3 cups of milk until the mixture is smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect, cheesy texture in your easy baked mac and cheese recipe. Low and slow is the name of the game here; patience will reward you with the perfect cheese sauce. You can also check this similar recipe using chicken cheddar ranch chicken burgers.

Cheese being stirred into white sauce for easy baked mac and cheese.

Step 5: Combine and Bake

Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious easy baked mac and cheese! For more baking inspiration, perhaps you’d enjoy something from our desserts and sweets category.

5. Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Mac and Cheese

Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting and flavor.
Don’t overcook the macaroni; it should be al dente as it will continue to cook in the oven.
For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheeses like Gruyere, Monterey Jack, or Colby.
Add a crispy topping by mixing breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkling it over the mac and cheese before baking. For a different twist, consider using panko breadcrumbs.
Customize with add-ins like cooked bacon, ham, vegetables (broccoli, peas), or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. A little bit of spice can really elevate the dish!

6. Serving Suggestions

This easy baked mac and cheese is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. It pairs well with:

Grilled chicken or steak
Roasted vegetables (asparagus, Brussels sprouts)
Salads (garden salad, Caesar salad)
BBQ ribs or pulled pork

7. Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

Make-Ahead: You can assemble the easy baked mac and cheese ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold. This is a great option for busy weeknights! For another make-ahead meal, check out our sweet hawaiian crock pot chicken.

Storage: Store leftover creamy baked macaroni in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

8. Nutritional Information

(Per Serving, approximate):

Calories: 450-500
Protein: 20-25g
Fat: 25-30g
Carbohydrates: 40-45g

Note: Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

9. Conclusion

This easy baked mac and cheese recipe is a surefire way to bring smiles to your dinner table. With its simple macaroni and cheese ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can create a comforting and delicious meal. If you’re looking for more simple recipes, check out our appetizers and snacks category. The creamy baked macaroni is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you crave a warm, cheesy delight. Looking for more inspiration? Check out this similar recipe on Allrecipes. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to indulge in this timeless classic. Enjoy your quick mac and cheese bake and the joy it brings! If you want a breakfast recipe, see our breakfast brunch.