Description
This easy baked mac and cheese recipe elevates the classic comfort food with a creamy, rich sauce and a golden, bubbly top. Perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks, this simple yet satisfying dish is a family favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente and drain well.
- Shred 4 cups of cheddar cheese. Freshly shredded cheese melts best.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth to create a roux, cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and stir in cheese, salt, and pepper until melted and creamy.
- Add drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stir to coat evenly. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best flavor and melting.
- Don’t overcook the macaroni; cook until al dente.
- For a richer flavor, use a blend of cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack.
- Add a crispy breadcrumb topping for added texture.
- Customize with bacon, ham, vegetables, or hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 475 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese, easy recipe, comfort food, cheese sauce, cheddar cheese, casserole, quick mac and cheese, creamy baked macaroni