Cheesy Dreamin' Baked Mac & Cheese

Craving the BEST baked mac and cheese recipe? This easy Southern Baked Macaroni version is pure comfort! Crispy topping, creamy inside. Get the recipe now!

Easiest Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe: Comfort Food Bliss!

June 9, 2025
By Aidan Rivers.

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Cheesy Dreamin': The Easiest Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe Ever!

Oh my gosh, you guys! who doesn't love mac and cheese? honestly, it's the ultimate comfort food. i'm gonna share the easiest baked mac and cheese recipe that'll have you saying "mmm!" with every bite.

This isn't just any mac n cheese recipe baked ; it's special .

From Soul Food to Your Table: A Slice of Americana

This soulfood mac and cheese baked macaroni recipe is inspired by classic american comfort food. forget fancy stuff. think simple, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection.

It's super easy. plus, it takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 6-8 people. you know, perfect for a family dinner or a casual get-together.

Benefits Beyond the Bowl

Besides tasting amazing, this max and cheese casserole delivers some good stuff. the cheese gives you calcium, and the milk adds protein.

It is the perfect thing to serve for a potluck, family gathering, or when you need a little comfort. what makes it special? the simple ingredients, easy steps, and that crispy, golden topping.

And did you know? mac and cheese dates all the way back to the 14th century.

Time for the goods. Let's talk ingredients.

Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to make the best baked mac and cheese recipe ever. honestly, this isn't rocket science! we're talking comfort food here, not haute cuisine.

So, grab your apron and let's get started!

Ingredients & Equipment for Easy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Okay, gather round! Here's the lowdown on what you'll need to whip up this magic. It's simpler than you think! We are making true soulfood mac and cheese baked macaroni.

Main Ingredients

Elbow Macaroni: 1 pound (450g) . The classic choice, innit? Don't overcook it. Aim for al dente. Nobody wants mushy mac. Pro tip: salt that pasta water like your nonna told you to.
Unsalted Butter: 6 tablespoons (85g) . Gotta have that richness.
All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup (30g) . This is what makes our cheese sauce nice and thicc, yeah?
Whole Milk: 3 cups (710ml) . Whole milk is the best . It gives a creamy texture.
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon .
Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon .
Nutmeg: Pinch (optional). A secret weapon for extra warmth. Honestly, it is good stuff.
Cheddar Cheese: 4 cups (400g) shredded. Sharp or medium, your call, yeah? I love a good mature cheddar for that extra oomph.
Gruyere/Monterey Jack: 1 cup (100g) shredded (optional). Adds some fancy pants flavour if you're feeling posh.

Seasoning Notes: Elevating Your Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Soul Food

Skip the blandness, people! Seasoning is key.

Spice Combo: Salt, pepper, and that tiny bit of nutmeg. It's like a warm hug.
Flavor Enhancers: A dash of mustard powder can add a subtle zing. Some use bouillon, but I always try to avoid it.
Quick Subs: Out of nutmeg? A pinch of mace will do the trick.

Equipment Needed for the best mac n cheese recipe

Let's keep it simple, shall we?

Large Pot: For cooking the pasta. Duh.
Colander: For draining said pasta. You know?
Large Saucepan: For that luscious cheese sauce. Don't burn it, yeah?
Whisk: Essential for lump-free sauce. Nobody likes lumpy cheese sauce.
9x13 inch Baking Dish: To bake this cheesy masterpiece.

Alternatives, you ask? got no whisk? a fork will do in a pinch. don't have a fancy baking dish? use anything oven-safe.

That's it. now go forth and make some magic. we are cooking mac and cheese recipe soul food!

Alright, let's dive into the ultimate comfort food : baked mac and cheese recipe ! forget those fancy, complicated recipes.

We are talking about easy southern baked mac and cheese , so good that you will be licking your plate.

This isn't just any mac and cheese; it's a hug in a bowl.

Cheesy Dreamin&#039 Baked Mac &amp Cheese presentation

Cheesy Dreamin' Baked Mac & Cheese: The Easiest Route to Comfort

This baked mac and cheese recipe is all about maximum flavor with minimal fuss. perfect for those nights when you crave something cheesy, creamy, and utterly satisfying.

Honestly, the best southern mac and cheese shouldn’t require a culinary degree, right?

Prep Like a Pro: The Secret to Success

Essential Mise en Place

First things first, gather your troops. you will need: 1 pound of elbow macaroni , 6 tablespoons of butter , 1/4 cup of flour , 3 cups of milk , seasonings, and 4 cups of cheddar cheese .

Having everything prepped saves time and stress.

Time-Saving Organization Tips

Measure out all your ingredients before you start. Trust me, there's nothing worse than scrambling for cheese while your roux is burning. Plus, a tidy workspace equals a tidy mind.

Let's Get Cooking: Step-by-Step

Step-by-Step Process

Preheat oven to 350° F ( 175° C) . Grease your 9x13 inch baking dish .
Cook 1 pound of macaroni until al dente. Nobody likes mushy mac!
Melt 6 tablespoons of butter in a pan. Whisk in 1/4 cup flour. Cook for 1- 2 minutes , creating a roux.
Gradually whisk in 3 cups of milk. Stir until thickened, about 5- 7 minutes .
Remove from heat. Stir in salt, pepper, and 4 cups of cheddar cheese. Melt until smooth.
Combine macaroni and cheese sauce. Pour into the baking dish.
Mix 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter. Sprinkle on top.
Bake for 20- 25 minutes , until golden and bubbly.

Visual Cues for Doneness

The top should be golden brown and bubbly. Poke it with a fork. If it feels firm but yielding, you are golden!.

Pro Tips for Mac and Cheese Nirvana

Expert Techniques and Shortcuts

Use a mix of cheeses! A little Gruyere will take it to another level. For a southern mac and cheese soul food vibe, add a pinch of smoked paprika!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don't overcook the macaroni. Al dente is key! Also, grate your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains cellulose and will not melt properly.

This baked mac and cheese recipe isn't just food, it's soulfood mac and cheese baked macaroni . it brings that classic comfort food to your table with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

It will become your default best mac n cheese recipe . enjoy the best cheesy mac and cheese !

Recipe Notes for the Best Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

Alright, so you’re ready to make this baked mac and cheese recipe . awesome! before you dive in headfirst, let's chat about a few things that'll really take your homemade mac and cheese casserole to the next level.

It is gonna be like soulfood mac and cheese baked macaroni .

Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro

Okay, let's talk presentation! honestly, even a super simple bowl of southern mac and cheese can look amazing with a little love.

I sometimes like to sprinkle a bit of extra shredded cheese on top right when it comes out of the oven.

Then, a little fresh parsley? chef's kiss! this best southern mac and cheese deserve the extra touch. for sides, think something that cuts through the richness, like a simple green salad or some roasted veggies.

A cold glass of sweet tea is always a winner, too.

Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh

So, you've made a batch of this amazing best cheesy mac and cheese , and you've got leftovers? lucky you! for the fridge, just pop it in an airtight container.

It'll keep for about 3-4 days. when you reheat it, add a splash of milk to keep it creamy. if you're thinking long-term, you can freeze it.

Just be aware that the texture might change a bit. i normally bake my mac n cheese recipe baked but with this recipe, i normally reduce the sauce when cooking to avoid excess liquids if i know i am going to freeze it.

For reheating frozen mac, defrost overnight in the fridge, then bake, covered, until heated through.

Variations: Switching Things Up

Want to get a little wild with your baked mac and cheese recipe ? i get it! for a veggie boost, stir in some steamed broccoli or roasted butternut squash.

Boom, instant health points! feeling spicy? a pinch of cayenne pepper will add a kick. for a dietary twist, use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.

I did see a cajun seafood mac and cheese recipe once, and honestly i think i'll give it a try once.

The possibilities are endless, really.

Nutrition Basics: Goodness Inside

Alright, let’s be real. this max and cheese casserole is comfort food , not health food, haha! but still, it’s got protein from the cheese and calcium from the milk.

It's filling and satisfying, which can be a good thing! just be mindful of portion sizes. you could also try using whole wheat pasta or lower-fat cheese to lighten it up a bit.

It is not a crusted mac and cheese but honestly it is the mac and cheese recipe baked creamy that you need.

So, go ahead and get your bakes macaroni and cheese , and don't be afraid to experiment and make this max n cheese recipe baked your own.

Have fun and enjoy every cheesy bite!

Southern Baked Mac &amp Cheese: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I stop my baked mac and cheese recipe from drying out?

Nobody wants dry mac and cheese, that's worse than a soggy biscuit! To prevent it, make sure your cheese sauce is nice and creamy before baking. Also, don't overbake it – once it's golden brown and bubbly, it's done. You can also try adding a little extra milk or cream to the mixture before baking to keep it extra moist.

Can I make this baked mac and cheese recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely, mate! You can assemble the mac and cheese in the baking dish and store it, covered, in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the baking time, and make sure the center is heated through properly. Just remember to take it out of the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to help it cook evenly.

What's the best cheese to use for a really cheesy baked mac and cheese?

Cheddar is the classic choice, but don't be shy about experimenting! A mix of sharp cheddar, Gruyere, and a touch of Monterey Jack will give you a complex, melty cheese flavor that's absolutely cracking. Remember, grating your own cheese from a block will melt much smoother than pre-shredded cheese (which often has anti-caking agents added).

Can I add breadcrumbs to my baked mac and cheese recipe?

Crikey, yes! A crispy breadcrumb topping adds a fantastic textural contrast. Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle it evenly over the mac and cheese before baking. For an extra bit of flavour, try adding some grated Parmesan cheese or a pinch of herbs to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also broil for the last minute or two if you want to get that topping extra golden and delicious!

How should I store leftover baked mac and cheese?

Leftover mac and cheese should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. It'll keep for about 3-4 days. When reheating, you can microwave it (add a splash of milk to keep it moist) or bake it in the oven at a low temperature until heated through. It might not be quite as good as fresh, but it'll still be a comforting treat!

Is there a healthier way to make baked mac and cheese?

You can definitely lighten it up a bit! Try using whole wheat pasta, a lower-fat milk (although full-fat milk makes for a creamier sauce!), and reduce the amount of cheese slightly. Adding some vegetables like steamed broccoli or cauliflower can also boost the nutritional value. Remember that everything in moderation! This baked mac and cheese recipe can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.