Easy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

Easy Baked Mac and Cheese is a comforting classic that’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden crunchy crust. This simple recipe comes together quickly and is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a tasty side dish.

Ingredients

• 8 oz. macaroni noodles (about 1 and 3/4 cup)
• 2 cups milk*
• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 Tbsp. butter, cut into pieces
• 3 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, divided
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 450°F.
2. Step 2: Cook the macaroni according to package directions, then drain and return it to the pot you cooked it in.
3. Step 3: While the macaroni cooks, combine the milk and flour in a jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Shake well until the mixture is smooth.
4. Step 4: Give the milk mixture one more shake, then pour it into the pot with the drained macaroni.
5. Step 5: Place the pot over medium heat and stir continuously until the sauce thickens and just starts to simmer. Remove from heat immediately.
6. Step 6: Stir in the butter and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Step 7: Pour the macaroni and cheese into a 2-quart baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining cup of cheese over the top.
8. Step 8: Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese and spray lightly with cooking spray.
9. Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 7-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the breadcrumbs are lightly browned.

Tips & Variations

• Use whole milk for a richer sauce, or substitute with 2% if preferred.
• Add a pinch of smoked paprika or mustard powder to the sauce for extra depth.
• Mix in cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms before baking for added flavor.
• Swap sharp cheddar for a blend of cheeses like Gruyère and Monterey Jack for a different twist.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the macaroni and cheese ahead and refrigerate it before baking. Bake it just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it’s hot throughout.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Small shape pastas like shells, rotini, or penne work well and hold the cheese sauce nicely.

Easy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 481 reviews

• Author: Ethan
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A simple and delicious baked mac and cheese recipe featuring a creamy cheddar cheese sauce, topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs for the perfect comfort food dish.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Macaroni and Cheese

• 8 oz. macaroni noodles (about 1 and 3/4 cups)
• 2 cups milk
• 1/4 cup flour
• 2 Tbsp. butter, cut into pieces
• 3 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, divided
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Topping

• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• Cooking spray

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Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) to get ready for baking the mac and cheese later.
2. Cook Macaroni: Cook the macaroni noodles according to the package directions until al dente, then drain them well. Return the drained macaroni to the pot you cooked them in.
3. Mix Milk and Flour: While the macaroni cooks, combine the milk and flour in a jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Shake vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Add Milk Mixture: Give the milk and flour mixture one more shake, then pour it into the pot with the drained macaroni.
5. Cook Sauce: Place the pot over medium heat and stir continuously as the sauce thickens and just begins to simmer. Once thickened, immediately remove the pot from heat to prevent burning.
6. Add Butter and Cheese: Stir in the butter pieces and 2 cups of the shredded sharp Cheddar cheese until melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Prepare for Baking: Pour the creamy macaroni and cheese into a 2-quart baking dish. Evenly top it with the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top and spray lightly with cooking spray to help with browning.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 7-10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the breadcrumbs are lightly browned and crisp. Remove from oven and serve warm.

Notes

• For extra creaminess, use whole milk or add a splash of cream.
• You can substitute sharp Cheddar with your favorite cheese like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
• If you prefer a thicker topping crust, add more panko breadcrumbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
• Be careful not to overcook the sauce on the stove to avoid a grainy texture.
• The cooking spray on the breadcrumbs helps achieve a golden, crispy topping without extra butter.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: baked macaroni and cheese, easy mac and cheese, comfort food, cheddar cheese recipe, creamy mac and cheese, crispy breadcrumb topping