Go Back
–+ servings

Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Please rate us
This baked macaroni and cheese strikes the perfect balance between creamy and cheesy, making it a comforting dish that's kid-approved and adult-friendly. Perfect for any occasion!
Print it Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 4 cups uncooked pasta (elbow or shells)
  • 8 tablespoons butter
  • 6 tablespoons flour
  • 1.5 cups whole milk
  • 0.5 cup heavy whipping cream Can swap half with more milk if needed
  • 4 cups shredded cheese (using a blend) A blend elevates the flavor
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 2 teaspoons white pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon cayenne

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F and grease a 9” x 13” casserole dish. Set it aside.
  2. In a large stockpot, melt 8 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  3. In a separate pot, cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
  4. Once the butter is melted, whisk in 6 tablespoons of flour to form a roux. Add the salt, white pepper, paprika, and cayenne to taste.
  5. Gradually whisk in 1 1/2 cups of milk and 1/2 cup of heavy whipping cream while increasing the heat to medium-high.
  6. Stir in 3 cups of your chosen cheese blend, continuing to whisk until the mixture thickens and the cheese is fully melted.
  7. Drain the cooked pasta (do not rinse) and combine it with the cheese sauce, pouring the mix into the prepared casserole dish.
  8. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheese over the top.
  9. Bake for 25 minutes, until the cheese on top is beautifully browned and bubbling.
  10. Enjoy your creation!

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 18gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3g

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results. Consider adding cooked bacon or vegetables for extra flavor.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!