Baked Macaroni Recipe
Baked Macaroni: Because sometimes comfort food needs a crispy top and a gooey middle to heal your questionable life choices. This recipe delivers golden perfection with a cheesy, bubbling interior that hugs every piece of pasta. Forget those sad boxed versions that taste like regret and preservatives. We’re talking real ingredients, real flavors, and zero disappointment. The oven does all the hard work while you sip wine and feel accomplished. It’s hearty, indulgent, and unapologetically delicious—because carbs are therapy, and this dish is your session.
Baked Macaroni Recipe
Baked Macaroni features perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a rich cheese sauce and baked until golden and bubbly.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika optional
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Cook macaroni in boiling salted water until al dente (about 7 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually add milk while whisking. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Add salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well.
- Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and smooth.
- Toss the cooked macaroni in the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle evenly over the macaroni.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan.
Notes
Nutritional Values (Per Serving):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
Vitamins and Minerals (Approximate Values Per Serving):
- Calcium: 35%
- Vitamin A: 20%
- Iron: 10%
- Potassium: 12%
- Vitamin D: 10%
Additional Notes & Tips:
- Use a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile—think Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for a subtle heat kick.
- Want extra crunch? Double the breadcrumbs.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven to maintain that crispy top.
