Description
This Easy Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food I love making for my family. I combine tender pasta with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, then bake it until golden and bubbling on top. It’s simple, cozy, and full of flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or warm family gatherings. The creamy texture and cheesy goodness make every bite satisfying and comforting, just like a homemade meal should be.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and stir continuously for 1 minute to form a smooth paste.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps.
- Cook until the sauce thickens, stirring constantly.
- Add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, then stir until fully melted and creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the top.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
I like to use a mix of cheeses for the best flavor and texture. If I want it extra creamy, I add a little more milk to the sauce. I can also add cooked chicken or vegetables for a heartier meal. This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: B
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg