Description
Creamy Baked Macaroni is a comforting dish made with tender elbow pasta, rich cheese sauce, and a golden baked topping—perfect as a main or side for any occasion.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and pour into prepared baking dish.
- Top with additional cheese and breadcrumbs if using.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and bubbling.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use a mix of cheeses for more complex flavor.
- Cook pasta slightly under for firmer texture after baking.
- Add cooked bacon, ham, or veggies for variation.
- For a crispier top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
- Store leftovers in the fridge and reheat with a splash of milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 75mg