Comfort food at its finest, this Easy Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a go-to for cozy family dinners and casual gatherings. With its creamy texture and cheesy flavor, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser. The combination of Cheddar and Parmesan cheeses creates a rich, mouthwatering dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe ensures a delicious result with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 (16-ounce) package elbow macaroni
- ½ cup evaporated milk
- 2 eggs
- 1 (8-ounce) container sour cream
- 1 teaspoon seasoning salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
1. Cook the Macaroni:
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your oven is at the right temperature when your mac and cheese is ready to bake.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, which usually takes about 7-9 minutes. Al dente means the pasta is cooked but still firm to the bite, which helps it hold up well during baking.
- Drain the macaroni and set it aside. You can also rinse the pasta briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process if you’re concerned about overcooking.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup evaporated milk and 2 eggs until smooth. This creates the base for your creamy cheese sauce.
- Add the 8-ounce container of sour cream, 1 teaspoon seasoning salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper to the mixture. The sour cream adds tanginess and extra creaminess, while the seasoning salt and pepper enhance the flavor.
- Gradually stir in 1 ½ cups shredded Cheddar cheese and ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese. The Cheddar provides a classic cheesy flavor, while the Parmesan adds a touch of sharpness and depth.
3. Combine Pasta and Cheese Mixture:
- Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese mixture. Make sure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy cheese sauce. This step is crucial for ensuring that every bite is packed with cheesy goodness.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter. This helps prevent the macaroni and cheese from sticking and adds a bit of flavor. You can use a paper towel to spread the butter evenly over the dish.
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. This ensures that the cheese sauce is distributed uniformly, promoting even cooking.
5. Bake the Macaroni and Cheese:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. The baking time can vary depending on your oven, so start checking at the 25-minute mark. The mac and cheese is ready when the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. If you prefer a crispier top, you can bake it for an additional 5-10 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
6. Serve:
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This cooling time allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to serve and preventing it from being too runny.
Tips for Perfect Baked Macaroni and Cheese
- Cheese Variations: Feel free to get creative with your cheese choices. Mixing in Gouda, mozzarella, or even a bit of cream cheese can add unique flavors and textures. A combination of cheeses can elevate the taste and create a more complex flavor profile.
- Creamier Texture: For an extra creamy mac and cheese, you can substitute half-and-half for the evaporated milk, or add a bit more sour cream. Additionally, stirring in a splash of milk or cream just before baking can help achieve a creamier consistency.
- Crispy Topping: If you love a crispy topping, consider adding extra shredded cheese or breadcrumbs on top of the mac and cheese before baking. You can also sprinkle a bit of paprika or garlic powder for added flavor and color.
This Easy Baked Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a classic comfort food that’s simple to prepare and full of flavor. With its creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a dish that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or serving a side at a family gathering, this mac and cheese is a guaranteed hit. The straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow steps make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Enjoy this delicious, cheesy dish as a satisfying main course or a delightful side!
