The Ultimate Easy Baked Mac Cheese

This baked mac and cheese recipe is pure comfort food made easy Creamy cheesy goodness baked to golden perfection The perfect soulfood mac and cheese Check it out ... Noodles
Recipe Introduction
Fancy some comfort food that's easy peasy? Ever craved a creamy, cheesy dish that's ready in under an hour? This baked mac and cheese recipe is the ultimate answer.
Honestly, it's so good, it’ll become your new favourite.
The Best Ever Mac And Cheese Baked Macaroni
This classic mac and cheese recipe is a staple in many households. It is originating from Europe, but it has been adopted by cultures everywhere.
This is an easy baked mac and cheese you can make even if you’re not a star baker. It takes about 45 minutes from start to finish, serving about 6 people.
Benefits of Homemade Mac and Cheese Bake
This soulfood mac and cheese baked macaroni is more than just a meal. Homemade dishes can be healthier. Skip all those preservatives in store-bought versions! Serve it at your next family get-together, or just treat yourself on a rainy day.
What makes this recipe special? It’s simple, satisfying and utterly delicious.
Let's Talk Ingredients
Alright, here's what you need. A pound of macaroni, a stick of butter, flour, milk, and loads of cheese. I like to use cheddar and Gruyère for a flavourful kick.
Don't forget the breadcrumbs for that perfect crunchy topping!
The Ultimate Easy Baked Mac Cheese Recipe Card

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients & Equipment: Your Best Ever Mac And Cheese Starts Here!
Right then, let's talk ingredients for this baked mac and cheese recipe . I always say, good ingredients = good food, innit? We're going for that creamy baked mac and cheese that everyone raves about, so quality is key.
Main Ingredients for a Soulfood Mac And Cheese Baked Macaroni
Here's what you'll need for this classic mac and cheese recipe , quantities listed in both US and metric because, well, we're international here!
- Elbow Macaroni: 1 pound (450g) . Go for a decent brand, none of that bargain bin stuff. Check it's a nice golden colour, not pale and dusty looking.
- Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons (56g) , divided. Real butter, yeah? Not margarine.
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup (30g) . Plain flour, nothing fancy needed.
- Whole Milk: 3 cups (710ml) . Full fat, for that extra richness. Semi-skimmed will do in a pinch.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon . Sea salt is my personal preference.
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon . Freshly ground is always better.
- Ground Nutmeg (optional): 1/4 teaspoon . Adds a lovely warm note.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 4 cups (approx. 400g) , divided. Get a good quality cheddar. I like a mix of sharp and mild.
- Shredded Gruyère Cheese (optional): 1 cup (approx. 100g) . This is my secret weapon for a good macaroni and cheese recipe .
- Panko Breadcrumbs (optional): 1/2 cup (50g)
- Melted Butter (for topping): 2 tablespoons (28g)
Honestly, the cheddar is the most important thing here. Don't skimp on it! You want a cheese that melts beautifully and has a proper cheesy flavour.
Seasoning Notes: The Secret to a Southern Baked Macaroni And Cheese Recipe
Now, seasonings! This is where you can really make it your own homemade mac and cheese bake .
- Essential Combo: Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Trust me on the nutmeg; it just adds a little somethin' somethin'.
- Flavor Boosters: A dash of mustard powder can add a subtle tang. Garlic powder is always welcome in my kitchen. A pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick!
- Spice Swaps: No nutmeg? A pinch of mace will do. Feeling fancy? Try smoked paprika for a smoky flavor!
Equipment Needed for this Easy Baked Mac and Cheese
Don't stress about fancy equipment. Here's what you really need for this baked mac and cheese no roux recipe .
- Large Pot: For cooking the macaroni.
- Colander: To drain the macaroni.
- Large Saucepan: For making the cheese sauce.
- Whisk: To keep that sauce smooth. A balloon whisk is ideal.
- 9x13 inch (23x33cm) Baking Dish: This is the standard size.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Obvious, really.
No fancy whisk? A fork will do. No proper baking dish? A smaller one will just make it thicker! No problem, as long as you watch baking time.
Let's get this easy baked mac and cheese made!

Cooking Method: Baking the Ultimate Easy Mac & Cheese
Right, so you want a proper baked mac and cheese recipe ? None of that fancy faff, just honest-to-goodness comfort food? You've come to the right place! My Good Macaroni And Cheese Recipe is so easy, even a complete novice can nail it.
Honestly, I practically lived off this in uni! The Best Ever Mac And Cheese Baked Macaroni can be yours.
Prep Steps: Let's Get Organised
First things first: mise en place, yeah? Basically, get all your ingredients measured out. Chop your cheese, measure the milk.
This time-saving organization tip makes everything so much smoother, trust me. I once tried to make this while juggling a phone call and ended up with flour everywhere.
Not fun!
Make sure your oven is preheated to 375° F ( 190° C) before you even start. That's crucial, innit? And grab your 9x13 inch (23x33cm) baking dish .
Step-by-Step: From Pot to Plate
- Cook your macaroni according to the packet. Don't overcook it, mind! Al dente is the name of the game. Drain it well.
- Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan.
- Whisk in 1/4 cup of flour and cook for about 1- 2 minutes . We want a smooth paste.
- Gradually whisk in 3 cups of milk . Keep stirring! Lumps are a no-no. Add 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper , and a pinch of nutmeg.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in 3 cups of cheddar and 1 cup of Gruyère until melted. We want a lovely, creamy sauce.
Pro Tips for Mac & Cheese Perfection
Want to elevate your Creamy baked mac and cheese ? Grate your cheese fresh. Pre-shredded stuff has additives that stop it melting properly.
It's not rocket science, but it makes a difference. If you are looking for a Southern Baked Macaroni And Cheese Recipe or Soulfood Mac And Cheese Baked Macaroni consider to add some hot sauce.
Fancy a crispy topping? Mix 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle it over the top before baking.
Don't be tempted to crank up the oven temp to speed things up. Bake at 375° F ( 190° C) for 20- 25 minutes .
You don't want burnt cheese, do you? This Classic mac and cheese recipe deserves patience. Enjoy your Comfort food mac and cheese ! Or maybe you want a Baked Mac And Cheese No Roux Recipe .
Okay, let's talk about this awesome baked mac and cheese recipe ! I mean, seriously, who doesn't love mac and cheese? It's the ultimate comfort food mac and cheese , right? But we need to make sure you nail it every single time.
Here's what I've learned after years of perfecting my own homemade mac and cheese bake .
Recipe Notes That'll Make You a Mac & Cheese Rockstar
It's not just about following steps. It's about understanding what makes Southern baked macaroni and cheese recipe so dang good.
Serving it Up Like a Pro!
Plating this easy baked mac and cheese can be as simple or fancy as you like. Honestly, sometimes I just grab a spoon and dig in straight from the dish! But if you're feeling a bit posh, try scooping it into individual bowls and topping it with a sprinkle of extra cheese or some fresh parsley.
As for sides, think crunchy and fresh. A crisp green salad with a vinegary dressing cuts through the richness perfectly.
Or maybe some steamed broccoli. To drink? Lemonade is my go-to, but a light beer works well too.
Storage Secrets: Keepin' it Fresh
Got leftovers of this creamy baked mac and cheese ? Lucky you! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days .
I don't recommend freezing it, though. The texture can get a bit weird. When reheating, add a splash of milk to keep it creamy.
Pop it in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until warmed through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring frequently.
Twist It Up: Mac & Cheese Remix!
Want to get a little creative? You can adjust this Good macaroni and cheese recipe ! For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and swap the flour for cornstarch.
For my veggie lovers, you can roast cauliflower florets and then add to the mac mixture. It's lush!
Nutrition 101: Fueling the Soul
Okay, let's be real: soulfood mac and cheese baked macaroni isn't exactly health food. But it's good for the soul! This recipe delivers a good dose of protein from the cheese and pasta, plus calcium and other nutrients.
Just remember to enjoy it in moderation. A serving is about 550-650 calories , with roughly 30g of protein and 35-45g of fat.
Honestly, this Best Ever Mac And Cheese Baked Macaroni is all about having fun in the kitchen. Don't be afraid to experiment, taste as you go, and make it your own.
You got this! The baked mac and cheese no roux recipe is a super easy recipe. And you are going to love it.
Get cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this baked mac and cheese recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the mac and cheese in the baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through. Just think of it as getting ahead on 'Bake Off' day – winning!
What's the best type of cheese to use for a baked mac and cheese recipe?
Cheddar is a classic for a reason – it melts beautifully and has a lovely tangy flavor. But don't be afraid to experiment! Gruyère adds a nutty depth, Monterey Jack brings a creamy texture, and a touch of Parmesan gives it a savory edge. Mixing a few types of cheese is like creating your own flavor symphony!
My baked mac and cheese turned out dry. What did I do wrong?
A dry mac and cheese is a culinary tragedy! This usually happens when the sauce is too thick or the pasta absorbs too much liquid during baking. Make sure your cheese sauce is nice and creamy before adding the pasta. Also, don't overbake it – as soon as it's golden brown and bubbly, it's ready. Adding a splash of milk or cream before baking can also help.
How do I store leftover baked mac and cheese?
Leftover mac and cheese is a delicious gift that keeps on giving! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave it, bake it in the oven with a little extra cheese on top, or even pan-fry it for crispy edges. A dash of milk or cream during reheating can revive its creamy texture.
Can I add different ingredients to customize my baked mac and cheese?
Absolutely! That's the beauty of mac and cheese, it's a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Stir in cooked bacon, ham, or sausage for a meaty version. Roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or butternut squash add a healthy twist. A sprinkle of herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the flavor profile – the possibilities are endless!
Is this baked mac and cheese recipe suitable for freezing?
While you can freeze baked mac and cheese, the texture might change slightly upon thawing and reheating. The sauce can sometimes become a bit grainy. For best results, cool it completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven. Adding a bit of fresh cheese when reheating helps with the texture.