Baked Macaroni and Cheese
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There’s something magical about a warm, cheesy dish of baked macaroni and cheese that just screams comfort food. I love making this recipe when I need a quick meal that feels like a hug on a plate. With just a handful of simple ingredients, including creamy lactose-free cheddar and cream cheese, you can whip this up in about 40 minutes! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when I’m craving something decadent without the fuss. The addition of spices like paprika and garlic powder adds a nice kick, making every bite deliciously satisfying. Plus, the golden, bubbly cheese on top is just irresistible! Trust me, once you try this creamy, dreamy mac and cheese, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love Baked Macaroni and Cheese
- Ultimate Comfort Food: This baked mac and cheese is the definition of cozy. It’s perfect for those days when you just need a warm, cheesy hug.
- Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes in the oven, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of lactose-free cheddar and cream cheese creates a rich, creamy sauce that’s packed with flavor—every bite is pure bliss.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins, like veggies or proteins, to make it your own. It’s versatile and always satisfying!
- Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table. Who can resist cheesy pasta?
Ingredients Needed To Make Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Make sure you scroll down to the recipe card to see the full list of ingredients needed for this recipe.
- Mild cheddar
- Cream cheese
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Milk
- Ground mustard
- Butter
- Elbow macaroni, cooked
Oven Temperatures
Oven temperatures can vary significantly from one oven to another. To achieve consistent results, it’s crucial to know the exact temperature inside your oven. The safest and most accurate way to determine this is by using an oven thermometer. This simple tool can help you avoid underbaking or overbaking your treats.
How To Make Baked Macaroni and Cheese
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine milk and butter. Stir until the butter melts.
- Add half of the shredded cheddar, all the cream cheese, and the seasonings. Stir until the cheese melts.
- Mix in the cooked macaroni until well combined.
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
- Enjoy your creamy mac and cheese!
Commonly Asked Questions
How do I store leftovers?
Not that macaroni and cheese ever lasts long, but the leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator covered for up to a week. Feel free to drizzle in a little extra milk when reheating it in either the oven on low, or in the microwave.
Can I freeze this mac and cheese?
Once it has been completely cooled it can be portioned into freezer safe bags. Make sure all of the air is out and seal them tightly. They will keep for up to six months.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re looking to add a kick, consider mixing in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when you’re melting the cheese. You could also use a spicy cheese blend for extra flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the mac and cheese mixture a day in advance, then store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake it, just sprinkle on the remaining cheese and pop it in the oven.
What can I serve with baked mac and cheese?
Baked mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it alongside grilled chicken or meatloaf for a comforting meal.
What’s the best way to reheat mac and cheese?
To reheat, the oven is your best bet for maintaining that creamy texture. Preheat it to 350 degrees, cover the dish with foil, and bake until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave, but add a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Equipment
- 1 saucepan
- 1 7×10 casserole dish
Ingredients
- 16 oz Mild cheddar, shredded
- 8 oz Cream cheese
- 1 ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp paprika
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tsp ground mustard
- 3 tbsp butter
- 12 oz elbow macaroni, cooked according to the package directions
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
- Add the milk and butter to a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the butter is melted.
- Add 8 oz of cheddar cheese, all of the cream cheese, and the seasonings. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted.
- Stir in the drained macaroni.
- Pour the macaroni and cheese into a 7×10 casserole dish.
- Top the macaroni and cheese with the other half of the cheddar.
- Allow the macaroni and cheese to bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
- Enjoy!
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Notes
Nutrition
I hope you enjoy this baked mac and cheese as much as I do! It’s one of those recipes that never fails to hit the spot, whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a gathering with friends. Trust me, once you take that first cheesy bite, you’ll be hooked! So grab a spoon and dig in—you won’t regret it!
One of the easy recipe to follow n repeat for my children n they love to hv these macaronies everyday, it turns delicious n yummy every time I make it, I can say it’s the love of my children recipe
Love that you and your children love this!!
How much pasta, it was not clear not unless I missed it and thank you.
12 ounces 🙂