Easy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
This no-fuss baked mac and cheese is simple, creamy, and cheesy—everything you want in a classic comfort food. Perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings, it uses a quick stovetop cheese sauce and finishes in the oven with a golden breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients List
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (warm)
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
1 cup mozzarella or Colby Jack (shredded)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
1 tablespoon melted butter (for breadcrumbs)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
Step 3: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
Step 4: Slowly whisk in warm milk. Stir until thickened, about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Remove from heat and stir in cheeses, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
Step 6: Mix the cooked macaroni into the sauce, then pour into baking dish.
Step 7: Toss breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Cooking Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings
Serves 6
Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)
Calories: 420
Carbs: 35g
Protein: 17g
Fat: 24g
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat in oven or microwave.
Pairings/Suggestions
Serve with green beans, salad, or grilled meats. Great for potlucks or weeknight dinners.
Seasonal Relevance
Comforting all year round—especially great in fall and winter.
Conclusion
This easy baked mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and topped with a satisfying crunch. It’s a simple recipe that delivers classic flavor every time.
Easy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
Course: Uncategorized6
servings10
minutes25
minutes420
kcalA simple, creamy, and cheesy baked mac and cheese that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. This recipe uses a quick stovetop cheese sauce and finishes with a crunchy breadcrumb topping for classic comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (warm)
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
1 cup mozzarella or Colby Jack (shredded)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)
1 tablespoon melted butter (for breadcrumbs)
Directions
- Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in warm milk. Stir until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheeses, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Mix the cooked macaroni into the sauce, then pour into baking dish.
- Toss breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top. Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor
Warm the milk before adding to prevent lumps in the sauce
Breadcrumb topping adds a nice crunch but can be skipped
Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently
Customize with your favorite cheeses or spices for variety
Great served alongside veggies, grilled chicken, or salad
FAQs
Q1: Can I skip the breadcrumb topping?
Yes, but it adds a delicious crunch—try crushed crackers as a substitute.
Q2: Can I make it ahead?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
Q3: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
It works, but freshly shredded cheese melts much better.
