Easy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe - Quick & Delicious

This article covers everything you need to know about making the perfect baked mac and cheese. It starts with a list of simple ingredients, including elbow macaroni, cheddar and Parmesan cheese, milk, butter, and basic seasonings. The step-by-step instructions guide you through cooking the pasta, making a creamy cheese sauce, and baking it to golden perfection. Tips for achieving the best texture, like cooking pasta al dente and whisking the roux smoothly, are included. You’ll also find ways to customize your dish with protein, veggies, or different cheeses, as well as advice on storing and reheating leftovers.

Simple ingredients for easy baked mac and cheese

Making a delicious baked mac and cheese doesn't require fancy ingredients. Here's what you'll need:

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder

For a crispy topping, you can also add:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon melted butter

These simple ingredients come together to create a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that everyone will love.

Why these ingredients work

The combination of cheddar and Parmesan cheese provides a rich and flavorful base for the sauce. Whole milk ensures a creamy texture, while butter and flour create a smooth roux to thicken the sauce. The seasonings enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the cheesy goodness.

Optional add-ins

Feel free to customize your mac and cheese with these optional ingredients:

• Cooked bacon bits
• Diced ham
• Steamed broccoli
• Sautéed mushrooms

These add-ins can provide extra flavor and texture to your dish, making it even more enjoyable.

Step-by-step instructions for the best texture

Follow these steps to achieve the creamiest, most delicious baked mac and cheese:

Cook the macaroni

• Boil 2 cups of elbow macaroni in salted water according to package instructions until al dente.
• Drain the macaroni and set it aside.

Make the cheese sauce

• In a large saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat.
• Add 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
• Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
• Cook the mixture until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
• Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
• Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon mustard powder.

Combine and bake

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring until the macaroni is evenly coated.
• Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
• For a crispy topping, mix 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of melted butter and sprinkle it over the mac and cheese.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly.

Tips for the best texture

• Cook the macaroni al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
• Whisk the roux and milk mixture constantly to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth sauce.
• Use whole milk for a creamier texture.
• Do not overbake; remove from the oven as soon as the top is golden brown.

Tips to make your mac and cheese extra creamy

Use the right cheese

Combine cheeses like sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and cream cheese for a smooth, velvety texture.

Add a splash of milk or cream

Stir in a little extra milk or heavy cream before baking to keep the sauce rich and creamy.

Cook the pasta just right

Boil the macaroni until al dente—slightly firm—to prevent mushiness.

Make a proper roux

Cook butter and flour together for 1-2 minutes to thicken the sauce without lumps.

Bake at the right temperature

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes—just until bubbly and golden.

Let it rest before serving

Wait 5-10 minutes after baking so the sauce sets and stays creamy when served.

Variations to customize your dish

Protein additions

• Crispy bacon bits
• Diced ham or cooked chicken
• Sautéed ground beef or turkey

Veggie boosts

• Steamed broccoli florets
• Sautéed mushrooms
• Diced bell peppers

Cheese swaps

• Swap cheddar for Gouda or Gruyère
• Add a sprinkle of blue cheese for tang
• Mix in pepper jack for a spicy kick

Topping twists

• Crushed Ritz crackers instead of breadcrumbs
• Panko mixed with melted butter
• Extra cheese on top for a gooey crust

Sauce upgrades

• Stir in a spoonful of Dijon mustard
• Add a dash of hot sauce for heat
• Mix in a splash of heavy cream for extra richness

How to store and reheat leftovers

Storing leftovers

• Let the mac and cheese cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing for later

• Portion the mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave a little space at the top to allow for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating in the oven

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish.
• Add a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
• Cover with foil and bake for 15-20 minutes.
• Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to crisp up the top.

Reheating in the microwave

• Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe dish.
• Add a splash of milk.
• Cover with a damp paper towel.
• Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Reheating from frozen

• Thaw the mac and cheese in the refrigerator overnight.
• Follow the reheating instructions for either the oven or microwave.