I’ve been making this simple baked macaroni cheese recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a classic comfort food dish that never fails to put smiles on our faces.
The combination of creamy cheese sauce, al dente pasta, and a crispy golden crust is pure magic. I love how easy it is to make, yet it’s impressive enough to serve at family gatherings or special occasions.
My kids can’t get enough of it, and I appreciate how it’s a great way to get them to eat some veggies without even realizing it – I like to add steamed broccoli or carrots to the pasta before baking for an extra nutritional boost. The best part?
This recipe is incredibly versatile – you can customize it with your favorite cheeses, herbs, or spices to suit your taste. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or looking for a new twist on an old favorite, this simple baked macaroni cheese recipe is sure to please.
My family and I have enjoyed it countless times over the years, and I’m confident you’ll love it just as much as we do. There’s something special about taking a traditional recipe and making it your own – whether that means adding some new ingredients or experimenting with different cooking techniques.
Simple Baked Macaroni Cheese
4.8 from 1918 votes
A comforting and easy-to-make baked macaroni cheese recipe. Perfect for a quick weekday dinner or a crowd-pleasing weekend meal.
2Cook the macaroni pasta in a large pan of boiling salted water until al dente.
3Drain the pasta and set it aside.
4The pasta should be slightly undercooked as it will continue to cook in the oven.
5In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
6Add the flour and stir to form a paste.
7Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture turns a light golden color.
8This process is called making a roux.
9Gradually add the milk and double cream to the roux, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
10Cook the mixture for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
11Remove from heat.
12Stir in the grated cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
13Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
14Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a baking dish.
15Spread it out evenly and place it in the preheated oven.
16Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
17The dish should be heated through and the cheese should be melted and gooey.
18Remove the baked macaroni cheese from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
19This allows the dish to set slightly and makes it easier to serve.
20Enjoy your simple baked macaroni cheese with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
Tips: You can substitute whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Add some cooked vegetables or protein like chicken or bacon to make it more substantial. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Watch Video Of How Simple Baked Macaroni Cheese Works
One of my favorite things about this simple baked macaroni cheese recipe is its versatility – whether you’re serving it as a main course or side dish, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
If you’re looking for ways to elevate this recipe for special occasions or dinner parties, consider adding some toasted breadcrumbs or crispy bacon bits on top for added texture and flavor.
For everyday meals, try pairing it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone’s cravings.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Macaroni Cheese
Q: Can I use different types of pasta in this recipe?
A: While traditional elbow macaroni works beautifully in this recipe, you can definitely experiment with other shapes and sizes of pasta if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the type of pasta you choose.
Q: What’s the best type of cheese to use in this recipe?
A: For a classic macaroni cheese flavor, I recommend using a combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese. However, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese – such as mozzarella, provolone, or even vegan options – to create a unique flavor profile that suits your taste buds.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the macaroni cheese mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake it. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before baking for the best results.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
A: Absolutely! This simple baked macaroni cheese recipe is naturally vegetarian-friendly – just be sure to check the ingredients of your chosen cheeses and pasta to ensure they align with your dietary preferences.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes! You can freeze individual portions of leftover macaroni cheese for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating as desired.
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