The Easiest Cheesiest Baked Mac Cheese Ever

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy some proper comfort food? This easy baked mac and cheese recipe is calling your name. It's unbelievably creamy and cheesy, trust me.

Brief Overview

Mac and cheese is basically a hug in a bowl, right? This version is seriously easy to make, taking about 45 minutes total, and feeds 6-8 hungry souls. Plus, it's dead simple.

Main Benefits

Honestly, the best thing about this simple baked macaroni cheese recipe is how happy it makes everyone. It's also got calcium from the cheese.

This dish is perfect for a potluck or a cosy night in! What makes it special? No faffing about, just cheesy goodness.

You know what? This is better than a takeaway!

Ingredients You'll Need

Right then, here's what you'll need.

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese (optional)
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional)

I love using a mix of cheddar and Gruyere for extra flavour. Feel free to play about with it.

Let's Get Baking!

Are you ready to make the best ever mac and cheese baked macaroni ? I know I am! The magic starts with cooking the pasta.

Do not overcook! Al dente is the key. I always set a timer. Then you whip up a super simple cheese sauce.

Don't worry, we're skipping the roux, so even if you are a beginner cook, this is for you. The smell of that cheese melting? Divine!

Now, who's ready for some creamy baked mac and cheese ?

Let's Get Cooking: Ingredients & Equipment for Easy Baked Mac and Cheese !

Right, so you wanna make the most amazing easy baked mac and cheese ? Awesome! It's a proper crowd pleaser. Honestly, this recipe is dead easy and you probably already have most of the stuff in your kitchen.

Forget that baked mac and cheese no roux recipe , we're keeping it simple!

Main Ingredients: Keepin' it Real

Okay, let's get down to brass tacks. Here's what you'll need for this cheesy baked macaroni recipe :

• Pasta: 1 pound (454g) elbow macaroni. Quality? Just regular elbow macaroni will do, love.
• Butter: 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter.
• Flour: 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour.
• Milk: 3 cups (710ml) whole milk. Full fat is best for creamy goodness!
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (5g) .
• Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) .
• Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25g) ground nutmeg (optional, but trust me!).
• Cheddar Cheese: 4 cups (approx. 450g) shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or medium, your shout!). Pre-shredded is fine, but grating your own always melts better.
• Gruyere Cheese: 1 cup (approx. 115g) shredded Gruyere cheese (optional, for that extra bit of somethin' somethin').
• Panko Breadcrumbs: 1/2 cup (50g) (optional, for topping).
• Melted Butter: 2 tablespoons (28g) (optional, for breadcrumbs).

You know, finding good cheddar is key. I always go for something mature; it gives the macaroni and cheese homemade that proper cheesy oomph .

Spice Up Your Life: Seasoning Notes

For seasoning, we're keeping it simple but effective. Salt and pepper are essential. A little nutmeg gives it a lovely warmth, perfect for that southern baked macaroni and cheese recipe vibe.

No fresh nutmeg? Ground's fine.

Want a kick? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper! It'll give it a little zing .

Gear Up: Equipment Needed

Right, you won't need much kit.

• Large pot.
• Colander.
• 9x13 inch baking dish.
• Whisk.
• Measuring cups and spoons.
• Cheese grater (if you're going posh and grating your own cheese).

Don't have a whisk? A fork will do in a pinch. No fancy baking dish? Any oven safe dish will work.

We're not aiming for Masterchef here! We're making a simple baked macaroni cheese recipe .

Now, let's get cooking that creamy baked mac and cheese ! Honestly, even I can make this, and that says a lot.

Cooking Method: Let's Make Some Easy Baked Mac and Cheese!

Honestly, who doesn't love easy baked mac and cheese ? It's pure comfort, right? This isn't your fancy restaurant version.

Nope, this is a proper, simple dish. We're aiming for cheesy baked macaroni recipe greatness with minimal fuss. Think of this as your go-to recipe for a quick baked mac and cheese .

Get ready for some seriously satisfying grub!

Prep Steps: Sorted!

Before we even think about turning on the hob, let's get organised. This is your essential mise en place . Boil the water for the pasta 1 pound (454g) of elbow macaroni and get your cheese grated.

Four cups (approx. 450g) of cheddar, one cup (approx. 115g) of Gruyere if you're feeling posh. It's all about saving time later, innit? Oh, and preheat your oven to 350° F ( 175° C) .

step-by-step: Simple as Pie

Alright, here we go!

1. Cook that macaroni until it's al dente . About 7- 8 minutes . We don't want soggy pasta!
2. Melt 4 tablespoons (57g) of butter in the same pot.
3. Whisk in 1/4 cup (30g) of flour and cook for 1 minute . Keep whisking so it doesn't burn, yeah?
4. Gradually add 3 cups (710ml) of milk , whisking until smooth. Simmer for 5- 7 minutes .
5. Take it off the heat and stir in 1 teaspoon (5g) of salt , 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g) of pepper , nutmeg if you fancy it!
6. Add the cheese, bit by bit, until melted and smooth.
7. Chuck in the macaroni, stir, and pour into a baking dish.
8. Top with breadcrumbs mixed with 2 tablespoons (28g) of melted butter , if you like, and bake for 20- 25 minutes until golden and bubbly!

Pro Tips: Ace It Every Time

Don’t overcook the pasta, seriously. Slightly underdone is much better. Grate your own cheese it melts better. Ever tried the soulfood mac and cheese baked macaroni ? It's amazing, maybe next time add some bacon.

If you're making ahead, don't add the breadcrumbs until just before baking. It's easy mac and cheese bake sorted.

Honestly, I remember one time, I was trying to rush macaroni and cheese homemade , and I didn't grate my own cheese.

Total disaster! It didn't melt properly, and the whole thing was a bit grainy. Creamy baked mac and cheese is what you should be looking forward to.

So there you have it. Best ever mac and cheese baked macaroni – simple, delicious, and guaranteed to please. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes: Level Up Your Mac Game

Alright, mates! You've got the recipe for the easiest baked mac and cheese ever. Honestly, this is a game changer. But, like any good recipe, there are a few insider tips to make it truly chef's kiss .

Serving Suggestions: The Presentation is Key, innit?

Think about how you're gonna plate this beauty. A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens it up. For a proper dinner party, portion it out into individual ramekins.

Feeling fancy? A drizzle of truffle oil never hurts. I tell you!

On the side, roasted broccoli or a simple green salad cuts through the richness. Some coleslaw can be amazing, too.

As for drinks, a crisp white wine or even a light beer works wonders. A scoop of pulled pork or BBQ chicken on top for a heartier dish can also be a vibe.

Storage Tips: Making it Last (if it Can!)

Leftover creamy baked mac and cheese can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it's in an airtight container.

Reheating is easy! Just pop it in the microwave. Or even better, reheat it in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) until bubbly.

Honestly, it's almost as good as fresh!

Freezing is also an option. I suggest freezing individual portions. That way, you can grab a quick meal whenever you need it.

When reheating from frozen, let it thaw overnight in the fridge first. Then, bake as usual. You know?

Variations: Keeping it Fresh, Adding a bit of Zing, know what I mean?

Want to mix things up? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. Or, stir in some cooked bacon bits for extra flavour.

For a veggie boost, toss in some cooked broccoli or peas. If you're avoiding gluten, use gluten-free pasta and all-purpose flour blend.

Fancy some cheese substitution? Monterey Jack, Havarti, or Fontina are great substitutes for Gruyere.

Nutrition Basics: A Little Bit of Knowledge Never Hurt Anyone

Let's be real: This southern baked macaroni and cheese recipe isn't exactly a health food. But it’s comforting!

Each serving (based on 8 servings) contains roughly 450-550 calories, 20-25g of protein, 25-30g of fat, and 40-45g of carbohydrates.

That said, the cheese provides calcium, and the milk offers vitamin D. So, it's not all bad! Right?

It's absolutely easy mac and cheese bake recipe to make your loved ones happy!

So, there you have it! With these tips, you’ll be making the best ever mac and cheese baked macaroni . Don't be shy to add your own twist.

The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this easy baked mac and cheese ahead of time? I'm a busy bee!

Absolutely! You can assemble the mac and cheese in the baking dish, cover it tightly with cling film, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it's heated through. Like batch cooking a Shepherds pie!

Help! My easy baked mac and cheese is dry. What did I do wrong?

A dry mac and cheese is a bit of a culinary crime, isn't it? It could be a few things. You might have overcooked it, or perhaps you didn't use enough milk in the cheese sauce. Also, pre-shredded cheese often has a coating that prevents it from melting smoothly, so grating your own cheese is always better.

If all else fails, stir in a splash of milk or cream before baking to loosen it up a bit.

What kind of cheese works best for this recipe? I'm feeling adventurous!

Cheddar is the classic choice for mac and cheese, but don't be afraid to experiment! A combination of cheddar and Gruyere (as this recipe suggests) adds a lovely depth of flavour. Monterey Jack, Havarti, or even a bit of smoked Gouda can also be fantastic.

Just make sure to use a cheese that melts well, like a proper cheese toastie!

How long does leftover easy baked mac and cheese last, and how should I store it?

Leftover mac and cheese will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture, unless you fancy enjoying it cold like a pasta salad.

Can I add any fun variations to this easy baked mac and cheese recipe?

Oh, absolutely! Mac and cheese is a blank canvas for culinary creativity! Stir in some cooked bacon or ham for a meaty twist. Roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or butternut squash add flavour and nutrients. For a bit of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.

You could even sprinkle some chorizo on top if you're feeling fancy!

Is there a gluten-free version of this easy baked mac and cheese?

Yes, you can definitely make a gluten-free version! Simply substitute the regular elbow macaroni with your favourite gluten-free pasta. Also, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of the regular flour in the cheese sauce.

Double check all other ingredients for hidden gluten as well, and you'll be good to go. You'll be enjoying your new gluten-free easy baked mac and cheese in no time!