Baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in. This recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy sauce with a golden, crispy topping that’s sure to impress.
Whether you’re a novice cook or a kitchen pro, this easy-to-follow guide creates a restaurant-quality dish with simple ingredients. Complete with nutrition facts, kitchen tools, and customization tips, this mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again.
Let’s get started with this cheesy masterpiece.
See also: Easy Cottage Cheese Alfredo Sauce Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Baked Mac and Cheese
This recipe is designed for ease and flavor. It uses simple ingredients like elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, and milk, which you likely already have in your pantry. The creamy sauce comes together quickly, and the baking process creates a delightful contrast between the soft interior and crunchy topping.
It’s versatile, too, so you can customize it with add-ins like bacon or vegetables or adjust the cheese to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a great option for meal prep, as leftovers reheat beautifully.
For those looking to maintain a balanced lifestyle while enjoying indulgent meals, consider complementing your diet with supplements like NuviaLab Sugar Control to help manage blood sugar levels or Fibre Select to support digestion and overall wellness.
Ingredients
To make this baked mac and cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp mustard powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
These ingredients create a rich, cheesy sauce with a satisfying crunch from the breadcrumb topping. If you’re aiming to manage your weight while enjoying this dish, consider Keto Actives, a supplement that supports fat metabolism and appetite control, perfect for those on a ketogenic diet.
See also: The Best One-Pot Chili Mac Ever
Kitchen Equipment/Appliances Needed
To prepare this recipe, you’ll need the following tools:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Medium saucepan for making the cheese sauce
- Whisk for smooth sauce preparation
- 9×13 baking dish for baking
- Mixing bowl for breadcrumb topping
- Measuring cups and spoons for precise measurements
- Oven mitts for safe handling
Having the right tools makes the process seamless. Ensure your kitchen is equipped with these essentials to achieve the best results.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your 9×13 baking dish with a bit of butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 6-7 minutes. Drain using a colander and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly pour in the milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Stir in mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and add 3 cups of cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
In a small mixing bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp melted butter, and the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the macaroni mixture to the prepared 9×13 baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Use oven mitts to safely remove the dish from the oven.
Step 7: Serve
Let the mac and cheese cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy it as a main dish or a side with your favorite protein or salad.
See also: Easy Chicken Spaghetti Recipe
Nutrition Facts
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 580 kcal
- Total Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 720mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 44g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 24g
- Vitamin A: 25% DV
- Calcium: 45% DV
- Iron: 10% DV
These values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands or substitutions. For those looking to support their metabolism while enjoying rich dishes like this, Cappuccino MCT is a bulletproof coffee that boosts energy and aids fat burning, making it a great addition to your routine.
Tips for the Best Baked Mac and Cheese
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s texture. Grate your own cheddar cheese for a smoother melt.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni to al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Customize It: Add cooked bacon, broccoli, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Make It Ahead: Assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready, adding 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
- Boost Your Health: Pair this indulgent meal with Moringa Actives, a supplement designed to support weight loss and reduce hunger, helping you balance indulgence with wellness.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce for heat.
- Different Cheeses: Swap half the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or Gouda for a unique flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free elbow macaroni and substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative.
- Vegan Twist: Use plant-based milk, butter, and cheese for a dairy-free version.
For those exploring dietary changes, NuviaLab Keto can support weight loss and energy levels on a ketogenic diet, making it easier to enjoy modified versions of this dish.
See also: One Pot Creamy Beef Pasta
Storing and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of milk to restore creaminess, and microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. For longer storage, freeze the baked mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make baked mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
2. Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use penne, rigatoni, or shells for a fun twist.
3. How can I make the topping extra crispy?
For a crunchier topping, mix in extra panko breadcrumbs or broil the dish for the last 1-2 minutes of baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
4. Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, this mac and cheese is kid-friendly with its mild, cheesy flavor. You can reduce the mustard powder or garlic powder if you prefer a simpler taste.
5. Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Stir in cooked chicken, bacon, or even shrimp before baking for a heartier meal.
See also: Spaghetti Aglio e Olio Recipe
Conclusion
This easy baked mac and cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining a creamy, cheesy interior with a crispy, golden topping. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for gatherings. With customizable options and make-ahead convenience, it’s a versatile dish that fits any occasion.
Pair it with a healthy lifestyle by incorporating supplements like Fat Burn Active to support your fitness goals or Collagen Select for skin and overall health. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the warm, cheesy goodness that everyone will love.
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