Baked pastas are one of my favorite prep-ahead meals! They might take a little more time to cook but most of that time is hands off, and they can be stashed in the fridge for days before serving. This Baked Ravioli, Baked Spaghetti, and now this Baked Mac and Cheese are favorites around here! This Healthier Baked Mac and Cheese is a lightened up, but just as creamy, homemade mac and cheese. It’s made up of whole wheat pasta that’s tossed in a rich and creamy cheddar cheese sauce. This easy dinner recipe is a family favorite and ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients Needed:
Macaroni Pasta: I use whole wheat, but white will work as well. Butter or Margarine and All-Purpose Flour: forms a roux to help thicken the cheese sauce. Milk and Chicken Broth: creates a creamy and flavorful base for our sauce. I use 1% milk to keep it light, but any type of milk will work. Seasonings: we’re using a simple blend of salt, black pepper, and paprika for a kick of heat. Shredded Cheddar Cheese: I recommend shredding your own cheese for the creamiest results. Panko Breadcrumbs: you can’t have Baked Mac and Cheese without a golden-brown, crunchy breadcrumb topping!
How to Make Baked Mac and Cheese
This Baked Mac and Cheese is a 30-minute dinner that everyone will love!
Tips, Tricks, & Notes
Shred your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheeses contain an anti-caking agent that can result in a gritty texture. I highly recommend shredding your own cheese for ultimate creaminess. Cook the pasta al dente. Slightly undercooking the pasta ensures that it keeps its structure even as it bakes. Rinse the pasta. After the pasta is cooked, give it a good rinse under cold water. This removes excess starch and stops the cooking process so it stays al dente.
Variations
It’s really hard to mess up Baked Mac and Cheese. So, feel free to play around with add-ins to customize this recipe!
Add veggies. Any pre-cooked veggies will work. Try diced bell peppers, chopped broccoli, bell peppers, peas, onions, you name it. Mix in a protein. Bulk your meal up by mixing in shredded chicken or cooked and crumbled bacon. Try other cheeses. I like to keep it simple with shredded cheddar, but any soft, creamy cheese will work in this recipe. Try gouda, gruyere, havarti, Monterey jack feta, or even goat cheese.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Mac and Cheese makes a delicious vegetarian entree or can be served as a side dish next to your favorite protein! Serve it as a main dish with a side of Roasted Green Beans, Air Fryer Broccoli, or a simple side salad. Alternatively, serve it as a side dish next to Air Fryer Meatloaf, Oven-Fried Chicken, Air Fryer Pork Chops, you name it.
More Mac and Cheese Recipes You’ll Love
Easy Homemade Mac and Cheese
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Crock Pot Mac and Cheese recipe
Green Chile Mac and Cheese
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