There’s a comforting charm in pulling a hot, bubbly dish of baked mac and cheese from the oven, its golden crust hinting at the creamy goodness beneath—a taste of pure nostalgia in every bite. For me, this dish brings back memories of Sundays in my mom’s warm kitchen, where the scent of cheddar and butter would fill the house and pull us all to the table. It wasn’t anything fancy—just her tried-and-true, easy mac and cheese recipe baked in a well-loved ceramic dish. That was her secret to keeping dinner simple but still making us feel totally spoiled.
I didn’t grow up measuring béchamel sauce temperatures or grating Gruyère with any kind of precision. What I did grow up with was the understanding that some of the best meals start with simple ingredients, made with care. That’s the heart of this recipe. I’ve carried it with me through potlucks, weeknight dinners, and lazy Saturdays when only warm, cheesy carbs will do.
Over the years, I’ve tweaked the original just enough to get that dreamy middle ground: creamy on the inside with a slightly crisp top that doesn’t overpower the dish. It’s the kind of simple, oven-baked mac and cheese made with love (and lots of gooey cheese) that’s gone before you know it—usually by the time everyone grabs a second serving. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving comfort food with a crispy edge, this is the baked version you’ll keep coming back to.
You don’t need to be a kitchen pro to make this recipe work. In fact, its magic lies in how little effort it takes for such delicious results. This baked mac and cheese is for folks who want real flavor, minimal fuss, and a casserole that earns repeat requests. With just a few pantry basics, a handful of good cheese, and a short bake, you’ll have something that feels like home in every bite.
There’s a reason this easy mac and cheese recipe baked up in under an hour has become my go-to for any last-minute dinner or potluck. It’s flexible, it’s kid-friendly, and it works just as well for Sunday dinner as it does on a Tuesday night when everyone’s hungry and tired. Sometimes, I’ll add cooked bacon bits, diced jalapeños, or even leftover roasted veggies to mix it up, but honestly, it never needs much dressing up.
Even my picky eater—who usually turns his nose up at anything with texture—asks for seconds when I pull out this dish. And that’s the magic of an easy mac and cheese recipe baked just right: it pleases just about everyone. I even make double batches sometimes, so I can freeze one and have it ready to pop in the oven on hectic days.
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Easy Mac and Cheese Recipe Baked – Creamy, Crispy, and Full of Flavor
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy mac and cheese recipe baked in under an hour is creamy, cheesy, and topped with a crispy layer—perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
2 ½ cups elbow macaroni
¼ cup butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional)
1 tsp paprika (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish.
2. Cook pasta until al dente, drain.
3. Make roux with butter and flour in saucepan.
4. Whisk in milk slowly, cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheese.
6. Season sauce, mix with pasta.
7. Pour into dish, top with breadcrumbs.
8. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes.
9. Broil 1–2 minutes for golden top if desired.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for smooth melting.
Try fontina or gouda for variation.
Double and freeze for an easy future meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: easy mac and cheese recipe baked, baked macaroni, comfort food
Table of Contents
Easy Baked Mac and Cheese at Home
The Pantry Staples That Make Magic Happen
You don’t need anything fancy to pull off a delicious baked mac. In fact, the beauty of this easy mac and cheese recipe baked into a golden dream lies in its simplicity. The base starts with elbow macaroni—nothing wrong with sticking to the classic shape. It holds sauce well, bakes evenly, and is budget-friendly. If you have shells, penne, or rotini on hand, those will work too.
For the cheese, sharp cheddar is essential. It melts beautifully and gives that familiar tangy richness. Add in some mozzarella for stretch and creaminess, and a bit of parmesan for that salty, nutty finish. I’ve also swapped in Monterey Jack or Colby when I was low on cheddar, and the results were still fantastic.
Here’s what you’ll need for this easy mac and cheese recipe baked in under an hour:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 2 ½ cups (uncooked) |
| Butter | ¼ cup |
| All-purpose flour | ¼ cup |
| Milk (whole preferred) | 3 cups |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 3 cups |
| Salt + pepper | To taste |
| Optional: breadcrumbs, paprika | 1/2 cup + sprinkle |
This easy mac and cheese recipe baked in one dish is built on ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s flexible, budget-friendly, and delicious on its own or with simple add-ins like cooked bacon or sautéed onions. Even a small scoop of leftover roasted veggies blends perfectly into the rich, creamy base of this dish.
Step-by-Step Guide: From Boiling Pasta to Broiling Cheese
Start by cooking your pasta in salted water until just al dente. You don’t want it too soft, since it’ll finish cooking in the oven. As the pasta boils, start your cheese sauce. In a large saucepan, melt the butter, whisk in the flour, and let it cook until it’s bubbling—about a minute or so. This roux keeps the sauce thick and smooth.
Gradually pour in the milk, whisking nonstop, until the mixture starts to thicken into a smooth, velvety sauce. Then stir in the shredded cheese a handful at a time. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, try a pinch of mustard powder or a splash of hot sauce.
Once your sauce is ready, mix in the drained pasta and stir well to coat. Pour everything into a greased baking dish. For that perfect top, sprinkle breadcrumbs and paprika over the surface. Bake uncovered at 375°F for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
What makes this easy mac and cheese recipe baked so reliable is its balance—just the right texture, the right bake time, and the right ingredients. The inside stays creamy while the top adds a bit of crunch that keeps you going back for more. If you prefer a crispier, golden top, pop it under the broiler for an additional 2 minutes before serving.
If you’re serving kids or want a milder dish, use only cheddar. For bolder flavor, try mixing in gouda, fontina, or a bit of blue cheese. It’s incredible how adaptable this baked mac and cheese recipe is when you start playing around with different types of cheese.
Want more cozy ideas that work for make-ahead meals too? This dish holds up beautifully for next-day lunches. Just reheat it with a splash of milk and it’s as creamy as the day you made it.
If you love recipes that come together without much stress, this easy mac and cheese recipe baked will earn a permanent spot in your rotation. It’s comforting, cost-effective, and endlessly adaptable.
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Secrets Behind the Perfect Bite
The Three Cheeses That Add Creaminess, Stretch, and Tang
If you’ve ever wondered why restaurant mac and cheese always feels silkier and more indulgent than what you make at home, the answer is usually in the cheese blend. A great easy mac and cheese recipe baked depends on more than just tossing cheddar into the pot. While sharp cheddar gives that bold flavor we love, it doesn’t melt quite as smoothly on its own. That’s where the blend comes in.
For meltability and that irresistible cheese pull, mozzarella or fontina are solid choices. They balance out cheddar’s sharp bite with buttery softness. To round things out, adding a small amount of something bold—like aged parmesan, gruyère, or even a touch of blue cheese—introduces depth and savoriness.
Here’s a simple guide I follow when choosing my trio:
| Cheese | Why Use It |
|---|---|
| Sharp Cheddar | Bold flavor, classic base |
| Mozzarella or Fontina | Creamy melt and stretchy texture |
| Parmesan or Gruyère | Salty depth and finish |
You don’t have to overthink it, though. This easy mac and cheese recipe baked is forgiving. Even if you only have cheddar, it’ll still be delicious—just make sure it’s good quality and freshly shredded for better melt.
I’ve even made this easy mac and cheese recipe baked using leftover cheese ends from the fridge. You know, those little chunks of random cheese you don’t know what to do with? They’re perfect for tossing in and melting down into a flavorful sauce.
The Crunch Factor: Toppings That Don’t Disappoint
While the inside of your casserole should stay creamy and luscious, the topping is where you can have a little fun. A crisp topping offers contrast and texture, and it gives the dish that “can’t wait to dig in” look. The most popular topping? Buttery breadcrumbs. They toast up perfectly and give a satisfying crunch with each bite.
I like to mix ½ cup of plain breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and a pinch of smoked paprika. If you want even more flavor, add grated parmesan or crushed garlic croutons. You can also try crushed Ritz crackers or panko for a lighter, crunchier feel.
If you’re gluten-free or avoiding breadcrumbs, don’t worry. You can skip the topping altogether, or sprinkle with extra shredded cheese and broil until bubbly and golden. The secret to this baked mac and cheese recipe lies in the contrast—creamy, cheesy base paired with a perfectly crisp, golden topping. That balance is what makes it memorable.
Some families like to add an extra layer of cheese right in the middle of the casserole before it goes into the oven. It melts into gooey pockets, which adds another layer of texture. Try that trick if you’re baking this dish for a holiday or a potluck—you’ll win over a crowd without saying a word.
The great thing about this easy mac and cheese recipe baked is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re making it on a quiet weeknight or for a big family event, the same formula applies: good cheese, good pasta, a simple roux, and just the right finishing touch.
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Avoiding Common Mistakes
Why Your Sauce May Turn Gritty (and How to Fix It)
There’s nothing worse than putting time into a dish, only to find your sauce turns grainy instead of creamy. It’s one of the most common issues people face with baked mac and cheese—and thankfully, it’s easy to fix. If your easy mac and cheese recipe baked comes out with a gritty texture, the culprit is usually overheating the cheese.
Here’s how to avoid it. To start your roux, melt the butter and whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth, lump-free paste.Add the milk slowly and whisk until thickened, but never add cheese while the sauce is still boiling. Take the sauce off the heat, then slowly stir in the cheese a little at a time until fully melted and smooth. This method helps cheese melt evenly, creating that velvety finish we all want.
Another important tip: skip pre-shredded cheese. Most come with anti-caking agents that interfere with melting. A block of cheddar grated fresh will make your easy mac and cheese recipe baked smoother and richer.
Stick to full-fat milk or whole cream for best results. Reduced-fat dairy tends to break or thin out under heat. If you’re out of milk, you can swap in half-and-half or evaporated milk. These alternatives will still give your sauce a rich, satisfying texture without extra work.
The Trouble with Overbaking – Finding the Golden Spot
Overbaking is another easy mistake that can turn your perfect mac into something stiff and dry. The goal of this easy mac and cheese recipe baked isn’t to cook the noodles—they’re already cooked—it’s to warm everything through and develop a lightly crisped topping.
To hit that sweet spot, bake uncovered at 375°F for 20–25 minutes. At the 20-minute mark, check for bubbling edges and a golden top. That’s your signal it’s ready. If you want it more browned, switch to broil for 1–2 minutes, but keep an eye on it. The broiler works fast.
It’s always a good idea to add a little more sauce than you think you’ll need—it keeps the mac and cheese extra creamy after baking. It might look like too much before baking, but pasta keeps absorbing moisture in the oven. Too little sauce going in means you’ll end up with a dry mac when it comes out.
One more tip: if you’re making your easy mac and cheese recipe baked ahead of time, assemble it and store covered in the fridge unbaked. Let the dish rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking and the best texture. Baking it cold will require extra time, and covering it during the first half of baking can help keep the top from getting too dark too quickly.
Don’t forget about seasoning. Salt your pasta water like you mean it, but don’t over-salt the cheese sauce before tasting it. Cheddar, parmesan, and even the pasta water all bring their own salt to the party. Tasting as you go is key to balancing flavor.
If your mac ever comes out too thick, you can loosen it with a splash of warm milk stirred in just
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FAQs About Easy Mac and Cheese Recipe Baked
How do you make mac and cheese easily?
Start with cooked pasta, then make a simple roux by whisking flour and butter together. Stir in warm milk, then melt in your cheese of choice. Once the sauce is smooth, mix it with the pasta, pour it into a baking dish, and bake until bubbly and golden. An easy mac and cheese recipe baked takes just a few steps and can be made with ingredients already in your kitchen.
What is the secret to good mac and cheese?
The real secret is balance: a flavorful cheese blend, a creamy sauce, and just the right bake time. Using freshly shredded cheese ensures a smooth melt, and letting the sauce thicken before adding the cheese prevents graininess. Another key to a successful easy mac and cheese recipe baked is pulling it out of the oven when the top is golden, not overdone.
What are the three best cheeses for mac and cheese?
Cheddar for boldness, mozzarella (or fontina) for creaminess, and parmesan (or gruyère) for a salty finish. This trio gives you the flavor, texture, and meltability that define a great easy mac and cheese recipe baked. If you’re feeling adventurous, a touch of blue cheese or gouda can take it to the next level.
What are common mac & cheese mistakes?
Overcooking the pasta, overheating the cheese sauce, and under-seasoning are all easy mistakes. Using pre-shredded cheese can lead to clumpy texture, and skipping the extra sauce often results in a dry bake. Avoid these and your easy mac and cheese recipe baked will come out rich and creamy every time.
Conclusion
Mac and cheese doesn’t need to be complicated to be comforting. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping a dish for a potluck, or simply craving something nostalgic, this easy mac and cheese recipe baked delivers creamy, cheesy satisfaction with just a handful of ingredients and a little oven time.
You’ve got everything you need now—from choosing the right cheese blend and avoiding common mistakes to building the perfect topping. Remember, the magic comes from making it your own. Stick with the classic, or play with add-ins like roasted veggies, bacon, or hot sauce for a personal twist.
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