Easy Baked Mac and Cheese: Comfort Food Made Simple

Are you craving a warm, cheesy dish that will make your taste buds sing? Look no further than this Easy Baked Mac and Cheese recipe. It’s a foolproof dish that combines the creamy goodness of cheese with perfectly cooked pasta, all topped with a golden, crispy crust. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for your family or feeding a crowd at a party, this baked mac and cheese is sure to be the star of the show.

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🍝 Ingredients for Easy Baked Mac and Cheese

Ingredient	Amount
Elbow macaroni (uncooked)	2 cups
Cheddar cheese (shredded)	2 cups
Mozzarella cheese (shredded)	1 cup
Milk (whole or 2%)	2 cups
Unsalted butter	2 tablespoons
All-purpose flour	2 tablespoons
Garlic powder	1/2 teaspoon
Salt	To taste
Black pepper	To taste
Bread crumbs (optional for topping)	1/4 cup

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🥄 How to Make Easy Baked Mac and Cheese

1. Cook the Pasta
   Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce
   In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens, then add in 1.5 cups of cheddar cheese and the mozzarella. Stir until smooth and cheesy. Season with garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce
   Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat the pasta evenly.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish
   Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top. If you like a crispy topping, sprinkle some bread crumbs as well.
5. Bake
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden on top.

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✅ Why This Easy Baked Mac and Cheese Works

• Creamy & Cheesy: The perfect balance of creamy sauce and melty cheese.
• Golden Crust: A crispy, cheesy topping that adds texture and flavor.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in less than an hour, this is a dish for busy nights or leisurely weekends.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it ahead and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, dinner parties, or family meals.

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🧊 Storage Tips for Easy Baked Mac and Cheese

• Fridge Life: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
• Freezing: Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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🍽️ Creative Serving Ideas

Not just for dinner—this mac and cheese is versatile enough for many meals!

• Topped with Protein: Add cooked chicken, bacon (or a bacon substitute), or even sautéed vegetables for a more filling meal.
• Side Dish for BBQ: Serve alongside grilled meats like chicken or ribs for a complete meal.
• Mac and Cheese Bites: Make mini servings in muffin tins for a fun party snack.
• Add Some Veggies: Stir in peas, broccoli, or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Gourmet Version: Try adding a bit of truffle oil and Parmesan cheese for a rich, luxurious twist.

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❓ FAQ: Easy Baked Mac and Cheese

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🍴 Conclusion

This Easy Baked Mac and Cheese is everything you need in a comfort food classic: cheesy, creamy, and baked to golden perfection. It’s incredibly simple to make, but it has the kind of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, looking for a side to go with grilled meats, or need an easy meal for a busy weeknight, this mac and cheese is the answer. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be personalized to your tastes. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare—and your guests will love how it tastes!

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