Classic Baked Mac & Cheese

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Nothing says comfort food like a warm, cheesy, golden-topped dish of homemade macaroni and cheese. This classic baked mac and cheese recipe delivers the perfect blend of sharp cheddar and gooey mozzarella for a crowd-pleasing, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Whether it’s a holiday side dish or a weeknight favorite, this rich and creamy dish is guaranteed to become a go-to in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Super creamy texture and ultra-cheesy flavor

• Easy to layer and bake with minimal prep

• Uses pantry staples like elbow macaroni and canned milk

• Perfect for potlucks, holidays, and Sunday dinners

• Customizable with added proteins, breadcrumbs, or spice

Ingredients Breakdown:

This mac and cheese gets its signature richness from the combination of evaporated milk, eggs, and a blend of cheeses.

• Elbow Macaroni: Holds sauce well and bakes beautifully

• Butter: Adds a silky base and flavor

• Evaporated Milk: Enhances creaminess and richness

• Eggs: Help bind the dish and add texture

• Cheddar & Mozzarella: A perfect balance of sharp and stretchy cheeses

• Garlic Salt & Paprika: Simple seasonings that elevate the flavor profile

Tips and Tricks:

• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting—pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents

• Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue to cook while baking

• Add a breadcrumb topping for extra crunch

• Customize with proteins like bacon bits, ham, or shredded chicken

• Use a blend of cheeses such as Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or white cheddar

Variations and Customizations:

• Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and thickener if making a roux

• Loaded Mac and Cheese: Stir in cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or chopped spinach

• Kid-Friendly Option: Use milder cheeses and shape pasta for picky eaters

Pairing Suggestions:

Serve this baked mac and cheese with:

• Grilled chicken or BBQ ribs

• Roasted vegetables

• Garden salad with tangy vinaigrette

• Garlic bread or cornbread

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days

• Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months

• To Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, or microwave in short intervals with a splash of milk

Popular Questions:

Can I prepare this mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5 extra minutes to the baking time if starting cold.

What cheese melts best for baked mac and cheese?

Cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and Gruyère melt smoothly and add robust flavor.

Can I skip the eggs?

You can omit the eggs for a looser, creamier texture, though the eggs help bind the dish.

Classic Baked Mac & Cheese

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x

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Description

Creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection—this comfort food favorite is perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 cups dry elbow macaroni

• 4 tablespoons salted butter

• 2 (12 oz) cans evaporated milk

• 1/3 cup milk (whole milk or your choice)

• 2 large eggs

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt

• 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 teaspoon paprika

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• 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

Step 2: Add Butter

• Stir in the butter until completely melted and pasta is coated

• Set aside while preparing the sauce and cheese

Step 3: Mix the Milk and Eggs

• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:

  • Evaporated milk

  • Regular milk

  • Eggs

  • Garlic salt

• Ensure everything is fully combined and smooth

Step 4: Combine the Cheeses

• In a separate bowl, mix cheddar and mozzarella together

• Reserve about 1 cup of cheese mixture for the top layer

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C)

• Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish

• Layer 1/3 of the macaroni into the dish

• Add 1/3 of the cheese mixture on top

• Repeat for two more layers, ending with cheese

• Pour the milk and egg mixture evenly over the top

• Sprinkle with paprika for color and flavor

Step 6: Bake

• Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling

Step 7: Serve

• Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving

• Scoop, serve, and enjoy every bite of cheesy comfort

Notes

• For a creamier mac and cheese, add a tablespoon of cream cheese or sour cream to the milk mixture

• To achieve extra browning, broil for the last 2–3 minutes

• Let the dish sit before serving to firm up the texture

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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