Baked Macaroni and Cheese

There’s nothing quite like a warm, gooey serving of Baked Macaroni and Cheese on a chilly winter evening. This dish always takes me back to my childhood, when my mom would whip up a batch after a long day. The rich, creamy cheese sauce enveloping the pasta brought comfort and joy, and the smell of it bubbling away in the oven was simply irresistible. As I grew older, I found myself recreating that same nostalgic feeling in my own kitchen, crafting the ultimate comfort food that warms not just the stomach but the heart. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a cozy dinner at home, this Baked Macaroni and Cheese always hits the spot.

Ingredients Required for Baked Macaroni and Cheese

The ingredients used in this Baked Macaroni and Cheese come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. The key players are the elbow macaroni, which provides the perfect vehicle for that creamy cheese sauce, and the combination of cheddar and cream cheese, which deliver a luscious richness that’s hard to resist. Each ingredient plays a vital role in crafting the ultimate comfort food.

• 1 pound elbow macaroni – This classic pasta shape is perfect for holding onto the rich cheese sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
• 5 tablespoons Challenge Salted Butter – The foundation of our creamy sauce, this butter adds richness and depth to the dish.
• 4 tablespoons flour – Used for thickening, this helps create that velvety cheese sauce we all love.
• 3 cups whole milk – The creamy base of our sauce, it helps achieve that luscious texture.
• 4 ounces Challenge Cream Cheese – Adds a tangy creaminess that elevates the flavor of the dish.
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded – The star of the show, this cheese brings that essential classic flavor.
• 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese, divided – Used both in the sauce and for topping, it adds a delightful crust when baked.
• 1 tablespoon stone ground mustard – A touch of mustard enhances the cheese flavor, adding a subtle tang.
• 2-3 dashes hot sauce – A hint of heat that balances the richness of the cheese.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons Challenge Salted Butter – For toasting the breadcrumbs, adding a crunchy topping.
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – Creates a crispy, golden topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.

Making This Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Making Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a simple yet rewarding process. It’s all about layering flavors and ensuring that every ingredient shines. Let’s dive into the steps!

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. While it heats, prepare a 13×9-inch baking dish by greasing it with butter. This will ensure that your Baked Macaroni and Cheese comes out beautifully and doesn’t stick.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the elbow macaroni and cook for about 7 minutes, just shy of al dente. You want it firm since it will cook more in the oven. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. In a medium saucepan or Dutch oven, melt 5 tablespoons of Challenge Salted Butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This will create a roux, which is essential for thickening the cheese sauce.
4. Gradually stream in the whole milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the mixture begins to bubble and thickens. It should coat the back of a spoon nicely.
5. Now, add in the Challenge Cream Cheese and whisk until it’s completely melted and incorporated into the sauce. This will make your cheese sauce incredibly creamy.
6. Slowly mix in the sharp cheddar cheese and half of the parmesan cheese, a handful at a time. Make sure each addition melts completely before adding more. This ensures a silky texture.
7. Stir in the mustard, hot sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This adds a depth of flavor that enhances the cheese.
8. Fold the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated. Pour the entire mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
9. Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the top. In a separate skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of Challenge Salted Butter over medium heat, then stir in the panko breadcrumbs. Cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden and crispy.
10. Evenly sprinkle the toasted panko over the macaroni and cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The aroma will fill your kitchen!

Things Worth Knowing

Ways to Customize

Customization is key when it comes to Baked Macaroni and Cheese. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Add Vegetables: Incorporate steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted peppers for a nutrition boost.
• Change the Cheese: Experiment with different cheese blends like gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a unique flavor.
• Protein Power: Add cooked chicken or ground turkey for a heartier meal.
• Vegan Version: Substitute regular cheese with plant-based cheese and use a vegan butter alternative.
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
• Spice It Up: For those who love heat, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
• Different Toppings: Instead of panko, try crushed crackers, fried onions, or even crumbled chips for added crunch.

How to Enjoy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Enjoying your delicious Baked Macaroni and Cheese is just as important as making it. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a Main Course: Serve it as a hearty main dish for lunch or dinner, perfect for chilly evenings.
• Pair with a Salad: A fresh side salad balances the richness of the pasta and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Great for Potlucks: Bring it to your next gathering. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
• Comfort Food for Holidays: This dish is wonderful during family gatherings and holidays, bringing everyone together.
• Meal Prep: It’s fantastic for meal prepping. Make a large batch and portion it out for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Seasonal Pairing: Serve with seasonal veggies for a delightful experience, like roasted asparagus in spring.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids adore this dish, making it a perfect choice for family dinners.

FAQ

Conclusion

Baked Macaroni and Cheese is a true comfort food classic that never fails to satisfy. Its creamy, cheesy goodness creates a dish that warms both the heart and the stomach, making it a favorite in many homes. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the joy it brings. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Baked Macaroni and Cheese

The ultimate comfort food, Baked Macaroni and Cheese combines creamy cheese and perfectly cooked pasta for a dish that’s indulgent and satisfying. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, it’s an easy recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds. Make it tonight for a cheesy delight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Whisk
• Oven
• Large Pot
• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 5 tablespoons Challenge Salted Butter
• 4 tablespoons flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 4 ounces Challenge Cream Cheese
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon stone ground mustard
• 2-3 dashes hot sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons Challenge Salted Butter
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 375°F. While it heats, prepare a 13×9-inch baking dish by greasing it with butter. This will ensure that your Baked Macaroni and Cheese comes out beautifully and doesn’t stick.
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add in the elbow macaroni and cook for about 7 minutes, just shy of al dente. You want it firm since it will cook more in the oven. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
• In a medium saucepan or Dutch oven, melt 5 tablespoons of Challenge Salted Butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This will create a roux, which is essential for thickening the cheese sauce.
• Gradually stream in the whole milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the mixture begins to bubble and thickens. It should coat the back of a spoon nicely.
• Now, add in the Challenge Cream Cheese and whisk until it's completely melted and incorporated into the sauce. This will make your cheese sauce incredibly creamy.
• Slowly mix in the sharp cheddar cheese and half of the parmesan cheese, a handful at a time. Make sure each addition melts completely before adding more. This ensures a silky texture.
• Stir in the mustard, hot sauce, and season with salt and pepper to taste. This adds a depth of flavor that enhances the cheese.
• Fold the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated. Pour the entire mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
• Sprinkle the remaining parmesan cheese over the top. In a separate skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of Challenge Salted Butter over medium heat, then stir in the panko breadcrumbs. Cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden and crispy.
• Evenly sprinkle the toasted panko over the macaroni and cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The aroma will fill your kitchen!

Notes

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish before baking. Just thaw and bake when ready.
• Pairing: Serve with a fresh side salad for a balanced meal.
• Meal Prep: It’s fantastic for meal prepping. Make a large batch and portion it out for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Serving: This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.

Keyword Baked Macaroni and Cheese, cheesy pasta dish, comfort food, easy macaroni recipe

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Meet Natalie Cole

I’m Natalie! I appreciate simple, honest food that nourishes the soul without requiring hours of effort. I’m always looking for smart shortcuts that save time but never sacrifice quality or taste. I cooked and photographed this meal right here in our kitchen, capturing every step to show you that a beautiful, cozy dinner is completely within reach.