Quick Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Food You Can Make in a Snap! 🧀⏱️🤩

1. Introduction

Who doesn’t love mac and cheese? This classic dish is a staple in many households, bringing comfort and joy with every bite. But sometimes, you need that creamy, cheesy goodness without spending hours in the kitchen. That’s where this quick baked mac and cheese recipe comes in! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a last-minute dish for a potluck, this recipe delivers all the comforting flavors of traditional mac and cheese in a fraction of the time. Say goodbye to long cooking times and hello to a deliciously easy mac and cheese that everyone will love. Looking for a complete dinner solution? Try pairing this mac and cheese with our delicious glazed ham!

This recipe focuses on simplicity and speed without compromising on taste. Using just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying baked macaroni and cheese easy dish on the table in no time. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and sure to become a family favorite. Before we dive deeper, if you enjoy baking, check out our collection of baking recipes for more inspiration! Get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food with minimal effort!

2. Why This Recipe Works

This quick baked mac and cheese recipe stands out for its incredible speed and simplicity. Unlike traditional baked mac and cheese recipes that require a lengthy béchamel sauce or multiple steps, this version streamlines the process without sacrificing flavor. By using a simple cheese sauce made directly in the baking dish, you save time and reduce the number of dishes to wash. The result is a creamy, cheesy delight that’s ready in under an hour, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something comforting but don’t have a lot of time.

If you’re looking for other easy dinner ideas, you might also enjoy our dinner recipes category.

Additionally, this recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to customize it with your favorite cheeses, spices, or even add-ins like bacon or vegetables. The base recipe is a blank canvas, allowing you to create a fast mac and cheese recipe that suits your taste preferences. For another crowd-pleasing baked dish, consider our shotgun shells baked to perfection in the oven. Whether you’re looking for a classic, no-frills mac and cheese or something a little more gourmet, this recipe provides a solid foundation for your culinary creativity.

3. Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this deliciousness:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: Breadcrumbs for topping

4. Equipment Needed

Make sure you have these tools ready to go:

• Large pot
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons

5. Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps for mac and cheese perfection!

Boil the Macaroni

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Al dente pasta is key to prevent mushiness! If you’re feeling adventurous, try using a different pasta shape.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot (or a 9×13 inch baking dish), melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to your cheese sauce.

Combine and Transfer

If you made the cheese sauce in the same pot, pour the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce. Stir until the macaroni is evenly coated. If you made the cheese sauce in the pot, transfer everything to a 9×13 inch baking dish.

Bake

Pour the cheese mixture over the macaroni. Stir until well combined. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning! If the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.

6. Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Mac and Cheese

Want to take your mac and cheese to the next level? Here are some helpful tips:

• Cook the Macaroni Al Dente: Overcooked macaroni can become mushy in the oven. Cooking it al dente ensures it holds its shape and texture.
• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully into the sauce.
• Don’t Skip the Flour: The flour helps to thicken the sauce, creating a creamy consistency that coats the macaroni perfectly.
• Season Generously: Salt and pepper are essential for bringing out the flavors of the cheese and macaroni. Don’t be afraid to season generously.
• Customize Your Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyere, Fontina, or Pepper Jack, to add depth and complexity to the flavor.

7. Variations and Add-Ins

One of the best things about this quick baked mac and cheese recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ideas to customize it to your liking:

• Bacon Mac and Cheese: Add crispy cooked bacon to the macaroni and cheese before baking for a smoky, savory twist.
• Vegetable Mac and Cheese: Mix in steamed broccoli, peas, or carrots for a boost of nutrients and flavor. For another easy and cheesy side dish, take a look at our easy no-bake cheesy bread!
• Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a kick of heat.
• Breadcrumb Topping: Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top of the mac and cheese before baking for a crispy topping. Feel free to add some paprika to the breadcrumbs for some added flavor! For a sweeter treat, consider our easy strawberry cheesecake rolls recipe

For more inspiration and variations, you can also check out this baked macaroni and cheese recipe. allrecipes

8. Serving Suggestions

This easy mac and cheese is a perfect side dish for a variety of meals. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, or a hearty salad for a complete and satisfying meal. It’s also a great option for potlucks, family gatherings, or holiday dinners. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika before serving. Don’t forget to try our family favorite scalloped potatoes or the classic scalloped potatoes for more side dish options! If you have leftover mac and cheese, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. You can also add a little milk or broth when reheating to retain its creamy texture.

Pair it with pineapple casserole for Easter dinner .

9. Conclusion

This fast mac and cheese recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves comfort food but is short on time. With its simple ingredients, straightforward instructions, and customizable options, it’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights, last-minute gatherings, or anytime you’re craving something cheesy and delicious. So, why wait? Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a quick baked mac and cheese that will impress your family and friends. And if you’re looking for a quick appetizer to serve alongside, why not try our zesty cowboy caviar dip? Happy cooking!

Quick Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

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• Author: Serena Miller
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Enjoy creamy, cheesy comfort food in under an hour with this quick baked mac and cheese recipe! Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy recipe delivers all the classic flavors without the fuss. Simple ingredients and foolproof instructions make this a family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: Breadcrumbs for topping

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
2. In a large pot or baking dish, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth.
3. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until sauce thickens (5-7 minutes).
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. If using a pot, pour cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir. If sauce is in the pot, transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Pour mixture into baking dish. Stir until well combined. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

Notes

• Cook macaroni al dente to prevent mushiness.
• Use freshly grated cheese for smoother melting.
• Customize with bacon, vegetables, or different cheeses.
• Add a breadcrumb topping for extra crunch.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup
• Calories: 420 Kcal
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, quick mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, macaroni and cheese recipe, cheese sauce, comfort food, weeknight dinner, pasta bake