Go Back
A golden-brown casserole dish filled with baked mac and cheese, ready to serve

Best way to grow with 3 Baked Mac and Cheese tips

This recipe provides a simple yet effective guide to making delicious baked mac and cheese, focusing on three key tips for an enhanced experience. It's perfect for a comforting meal that everyone will love.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Elbow macaroni
  • 0.5 cup Butter
  • 0.5 cup All-purpose flour
  • 3 cups Milk
  • 2 cups Cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded
  • 0.5 tsp Salt
  • 0.25 tsp Black pepper
  • 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs for topping

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • Whisk
  • 9x13 inch baking dish

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
  3. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened, then stir in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  4. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and transfer to a 9x13 inch baking dish; sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crispy finish.
Baking and Serving
  1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and the breadcrumbs are golden brown.
  2. Allow the mac and cheese to rest for a few minutes before serving hot.

Notes

For an extra creamy sauce, use whole milk and consider a splash of heavy cream. To prevent a grainy sauce, ensure your cheeses are at room temperature before adding them. Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce. You can also add a layer of cooked bacon or ham for a more hearty dish.