Nothing says comfort like a creamy, cheesy, golden-baked macaroni and cheese. This classic baked mac and cheese recipe delivers rich, velvety cheese sauce layered perfectly with tender elbow macaroni, all baked to bubbling perfection. The combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella creates a flavorful, gooey dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Whether you’re looking for easy dinner recipes, budget-friendly meals, or a hearty family comfort food, this baked mac and cheese fits every occasion. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday side dishes, or potluck favorites, and the recipe is simple enough for beginner cooks yet indulgent enough to impress anyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Mac and Cheese
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Creamy, cheesy, and golden on top—an irresistible comfort food favorite.
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Quick and easy to prepare with pantry staples.
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Perfect for family dinners, parties, or meal prep-friendly meals.
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Fully customizable with additional cheeses, spices, or mix-ins.
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Kid-approved and budget-friendly, using simple ingredients for maximum flavor.
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Reheats well, making it ideal for leftover recipe hacks.
Ingredient Breakdown:
For the Pasta:
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Elbow Macaroni (3 cups): The classic shape for baked mac and cheese, holding sauce perfectly while staying tender but firm.
For the Sauce:
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Salted Butter (4 tbsp): Coats the pasta, adds richness, and helps the sauce adhere to every noodle.
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Evaporated Milk (24 oz, 2 cans): Creates a creamy, custard-like texture without making the dish too heavy.
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Milk (1/3 cup, whole or choice): Balances the richness and helps achieve a smooth sauce.
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Eggs (2 large): Provide structure to the casserole, ensuring the sauce sets beautifully when baked.
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Garlic Salt (1/4 tsp): Enhances flavor with a subtle garlic punch.
For the Cheese:
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Sharp Cheddar (4 cups, shredded): Gives bold, tangy flavor, forming the backbone of this comfort dish.
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Mozzarella (2 cups, shredded): Adds gooey, melty texture that pulls beautifully when served.
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Paprika (1 tsp): Sprinkled on top for color, aroma, and a slight smoky flavor.
Pro Tips
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Cook pasta just until al dente; it will continue cooking in the oven.
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Reserve some cheese for the topping to create a golden, bubbly crust.
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Whisk eggs and milk thoroughly to avoid lumps in the custard.
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Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes after baking for easier slicing.
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Use a mix of sharp and mild cheeses for a balanced flavor profile.
Ingredient Swaps and Variations
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Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free elbow macaroni to accommodate dietary needs.
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Extra Veggies: Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted peppers for a nutritious twist.
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Spicy Version: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
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Cheese Variations: Try gouda, pepper jack, or gruyère for a gourmet touch.
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Keto-Friendly Swap: Replace pasta with cooked cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative.
Serving Suggestions: Pairings That Impress
Serve this baked mac and cheese alongside:
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Crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
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Garlic bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up every cheesy bite.
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Roasted chicken, pork, or steak for a complete family dinner.
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Fresh fruit on the side for a playful balance of flavors.
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Perfect as a party side dish or holiday comfort food favorite.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
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Assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
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Freeze baked or unbaked mac and cheese for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
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Reheat in the oven for best texture and melt, or microwave individual portions.
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Prepping in advance makes this recipe ideal for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Cultural Notes: The Ultimate American Comfort Food
Baked mac and cheese is a classic American dish with roots in Southern cuisine. Combining macaroni, creamy cheese sauce, and a baked golden top has made it a staple of comfort food tables for generations. This recipe is a modern, foolproof version that delivers rich flavor and nostalgia in every bite, perfect for family-friendly meals, potlucks, or special occasions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make baked mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it the night before and refrigerate. Add cheese topping just before baking for a perfect golden finish.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I make this recipe healthier?
Absolutely! Use lower-fat cheese, milk alternatives, or mix in vegetables for added nutrition.
Can I customize the cheese or pasta?
Yes! Swap cheeses for flavor variety or pasta shapes for fun textures. This is a flexible, family-friendly comfort food recipe.
Classic Baked Mac & Cheese
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until al dente (about 7–8 minutes). Drain pasta and return to the pot.
- Stir in the butter until completely melted and pasta is coated. Set aside while preparing the sauce and cheese.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together evaporated milk, regular milk, eggs, and garlic salt until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix cheddar and mozzarella together. Reserve about 1 cup of cheese mixture for the topping.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer 1/3 of the macaroni, then 1/3 of the cheese mixture. Repeat for two more layers, ending with cheese. Pour milk and egg mixture evenly over the top. Sprinkle with paprika.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Scoop, serve, and enjoy!
