Easy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

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The Comfort of Easy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

There’s something undeniably warm and soothing about a dish of mac and cheese fresh from the oven—the kind that wraps you in golden, velvety layers of cheesy goodness. I love how this Easy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe combines simplicity and deep flavor with minimal fuss, perfect for those cozy weekends when you want comfort food without complicated steps.

You’ll notice this version leans on creamy textures and a luscious blend of cheeses that melt together beautifully, delivering that classic, rich taste you crave. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a laid-back gathering with friends, this dish hits the spot every time.

From the moment you open the oven to that first inhale of aromatic cheese and butter, you’ll feel the magic start to happen. Let me walk you through this Easy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe so you can nail it with confidence and maybe discover your new signature comfort food.

Ingredient Guide

• 1 lb elbow macaroni pasta: Classic shape that holds sauce beautifully; whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can swap in.
• 16 oz American cheese: Melt-in-your-mouth base, giving a smooth, creamy texture.
• 3 cups heavy cream: Creates luscious creaminess; feel free to substitute half-and-half for a lighter option.
• 1 cup water: Helps the pasta cook in the oven evenly; don’t skip to avoid dryness.
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter: Adds depth and richness; you can use salted but omit additional salt.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all flavors without overpowering.
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper: Adds subtle warmth and balance.
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Provides a zingy finish that sharpens the whole dish; swap for smoked gouda for a smoky twist.

Prep Before You Begin

This Easy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe comes together smoothly if you prep everything first. I always measure out the cream, grate the cheddar, and have the butter and spices ready. Preheat your oven to 375°F so it’s hot and ready when you assemble. Mise en place makes all the difference here, helping you enjoy the process without rush.

How to Make Easy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

1. Gather all your ingredients. I like to have everything out on the counter—it makes the whole process feel calm and organized.
2. Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures the pasta cooks evenly and the cheese melts to that perfect gooey bliss.
3. Place the American cheese block in the center of a 9×13-inch baking pan. This central placement helps it melt uniformly while the pasta cooks around it.
4. Pour the dry elbow macaroni around the cheese block. Make sure the elbows nestle together but don’t overcrowd the pan — each piece needs room to cook.
5. Pour heavy cream over the pasta, covering all the elbows. This gives the dish its velvety sauce as it bakes—watch how it bubbles and thickens.
6. Add the water, salt, and ground pepper on top. The water is key; it allows the pasta to cook gently right in the oven, absorbing all those savory flavors.
7. Dot each corner of the dish with a tablespoon of unsalted butter. These buttery pockets will melt into every corner, enriching each bite with depth and silkiness.
8. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil. Without this tent, the dish could dry out or over-brown prematurely.
9. Bake for 45 minutes. You’ll smell the wonderful aromas building—a mix of baked cheese and butter that’s utterly inviting.

10. Remove the foil carefully once baking is done. Steam escapes, revealing a bubbling, lightly crisp top edge around the pan—not quite browned but perfect for stirring.
11. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese and stir gently to combine. You’ll notice the cheddar melts slowly, adding sharpness and that satisfying stretch.
12. Add the remaining cheddar cheese and continue stirring until everything comes together in a creamy, cheesy masterpiece. This step locks in flavor and smooth texture, making the dish so inviting.

Creative Variations for Easy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

• Add crispy bacon bits or pancetta for a smoky crunch.
• Mix in steamed broccoli or roasted butternut squash to boost the veggies and color.
• Swap sharp cheddar with pepper jack for a spicy kick that’s subtle but exciting.
• Top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter before baking to add a golden, crisp crust.
• Stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy depth that brightens the rich cheese.
• Use Gruyère or fontina for a more sophisticated melt and nutty flavor.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat covered in the oven or microwave.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for 1–2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating tip: Add a splash of milk or cream before reheating to keep the sauce creamy and prevent drying.
• For best results: Reheat covered with foil to retain moisture and warm evenly.

Easy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs

• Can I use different pasta shapes? Absolutely! Small shapes like shells or rotini work well to hold the sauce.
• Can I make this recipe dairy-free? You can swap heavy cream for coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese alternatives, but texture and flavor will be a bit different.
• Is it okay to prep ahead? Yes, you can assemble it up to 24 hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge, then bake before serving.
• Why does the recipe use a block of American cheese in the baking pan? It melts slowly in the middle, infusing creaminess throughout and creating that silky texture.
• How do I know when it’s done? The liquid should be absorbed, the pasta tender, and the cheese melted into a hot, bubbly sauce.

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