Baked Macaroni

Baked Macaroni is a timeless comfort food that features tender pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with a golden, cheesy crust. Perfect as a main dish or a hearty side, this classic bake is loved by all ages and ideal for both everyday meals and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You will love Baked Macaroni for its creamy, cheesy interior and irresistible crispy topping. This dish is simple to prepare, uses affordable and familiar ingredients, and is endlessly adaptable to suit different tastes. Whether served as the star of the meal or a supporting side, baked macaroni brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Macaroni pasta
• Butter
• All-purpose flour
• Milk
• Cheddar cheese, shredded
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
• Parmesan cheese, grated (for topping)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Ground mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
• Paprika (optional, for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, to form a roux.
4. Gradually add milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and ground mustard if using.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan over the top and dust lightly with paprika.
8. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add-ins: Stir in cooked bacon, ham, or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
• Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
• Crumb topping: Sprinkle with buttered breadcrumbs before baking for extra crunch.
• Different cheeses: Try Gruyère, fontina, or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave individual portions. Baked macaroni can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I use other pasta shapes?

Yes, penne, fusilli, or shells work well in place of macaroni.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming grainy?

Cook over moderate heat and stir constantly. Add cheese off the heat or over low heat to prevent separation.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, baked macaroni freezes well. Cool completely before freezing.

What sides go well with baked macaroni?

Green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread complement it nicely.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

How do I get a crispier top?

Bake uncovered and broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for added crispness.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly.

Is it necessary to use three cheeses?

No, but combining cheeses gives more depth of flavor.

How can I make it creamier?

Add a bit more milk or stir in a spoonful of cream or cream cheese.

Conclusion

Baked Macaroni is a classic, comforting dish that delivers creamy, cheesy goodness with a deliciously golden crust. Easy to customize and always satisfying, it is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation, whether served as a main or a side.

Baked Macaroni

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Baked Macaroni is a timeless comfort food that features tender pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce and topped with a golden, cheesy crust. Ideal as a main dish or hearty side, it’s loved by all ages and perfect for both everyday meals and special occasions.

• Author: Emma Harper
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• Macaroni pasta
• Butter
• All-purpose flour
• Milk
• Cheddar cheese, shredded
• Mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
• Parmesan cheese, grated (for topping)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Ground mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
• Paprika (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, to form a roux.
4. Gradually add milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and ground mustard if using.
6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan over the top and dust lightly with paprika.
8. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
9. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

• Add-ins: Stir in cooked bacon, ham, or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
• Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the cheese sauce.
• Crumb topping: Sprinkle with buttered breadcrumbs before baking for extra crunch.
• Different cheeses: Try Gruyère, fontina, or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions. Baked macaroni can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 60mg