simple bake mac and cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best simple bake mac and cheese recipe

I’m so excited to share this simple bake mac and cheese recipe with you. It’s a classic comfort food dish that never fails to put a smile on my family’s faces. As a busy mom, I love that it’s easy to make and requires minimal effort, yet it’s still a treat that we all look forward to.

The best part? It’s made with wholesome ingredients that are good for us, too. Mac and cheese has its roots in the United States, where it was first introduced as a convenient and affordable meal option for families.

Over time, it’s evolved into a staple in many American households, often served at family gatherings and special occasions. But what makes this dish truly special is the way it makes me feel – cozy, comforted, and connected to my loved ones. When I’m cooking up a batch of mac and cheese, I can almost hear the sound of my kids’ happy chatter and laughter as they gather around the table, eager to dig in.

It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings us all together. And let’s not forget about the health benefits! Macaroni is a good source of complex carbohydrates, while cheese provides calcium and protein.

This recipe is also relatively low in calories compared to other comfort foods, making it a guilt-free treat for our family. With these benefits in mind, I like to think of this simple bake mac and cheese recipe as the perfect solution for any occasion – whether we’re celebrating a special event or just need a pick-me-up on a busy weeknight.

Simple Bake Mac and Cheese

4.6 from 1673 votes

This simple bake mac and cheese recipe is a comforting classic. It features a creamy cheese sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2Cook elbow macaroni in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3Drain and set aside.
4In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
5Add flour to create a roux, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden.
6Gradually whisk in milk, cooking for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
7Add cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
8Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in the baking dish.
9Mix well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
10In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs and olive oil.
11Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
12Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.
13Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Medium saucepan
Large pot
Baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.

This simple bake mac and cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether we’re celebrating a special event or just need a pick-me-up on a busy weeknight.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easy it is to reheat leftovers – simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until warm and bubbly.

For serving ideas, consider adding some crispy breadcrumbs on top or serving it alongside some fresh fruit or salad for a balanced meal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Bake Mac and Cheese

1. What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using macaroni or shells for this recipe, as they hold onto the cheesy sauce nicely.

2. Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with another type?

Yes, you can use other types of cheese like mozzarella or parmesan if you prefer – just keep in mind that they may have slightly different flavor profiles.

3. How long does it take to cook the pasta?

The pasta should be cooked until al dente, which usually takes around 8-10 minutes.

4. Can I add other ingredients to the mac and cheese?

Of course! Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like cooked bacon, diced ham, or steamed broccoli to give it some extra flavor and nutrition.

5. How do I store leftover mac and cheese?

You can store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

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