Pasta Bakes

Macaroni And Cheese Bake

Name: Macaroni And Cheese Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) macaroni; 2 cups (220g) grated cheddar cheese; 1 cup (115g) grated mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup (55g) grated parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup (55g) all-purpose flour; 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter; 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk; 1/2 tsp (2g) salt; 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper; 2 cups (120g) panko breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh parsley

By Maren Holloway · June 19, 2026 · Pasta Bakes

Prep20 min

Cook30 min

Total50 min

Serves6

I still remember the first time I made a macaroni and cheese bake for my family. It was a cold winter evening, and the aroma of melted cheese and baked pasta filled our home, making everyone feel cozy and hungry. As we sat down to enjoy this comforting dish, I knew I had found a recipe that would become a staple in our household.

There's something special about a macaroni and cheese bake that just feels like home. Maybe it's the combination of creamy sauce, al dente pasta, and a crispy, golden-brown topping. Or perhaps it's the fact that it's an easy, one-dish wonder that can be prepared in no time. Whatever the reason, this macaroni and cheese bake recipe has become a favorite in our home, and I'm excited to share it with you.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or cozy nights in. It's also a great way to use up leftover pasta, cheese, and other ingredients you might have on hand. And the best part? It's incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort, making it a great option for beginners or experienced cooks alike.

In this recipe, we'll cover the basics of making a delicious macaroni and cheese bake, from cooking the pasta to creating a rich and creamy sauce. We'll also discuss some tips and variations to help you make the most of this recipe and make it your own.

So, let's get started and dive into the world of macaroni and cheese bakes. I promise you, this recipe will become a staple in your household, just like it has in mine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This macaroni and cheese bake recipe is easy to make and requires minimal effort.
It's a great way to use up leftover pasta, cheese, and other ingredients.
The dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or cozy nights in.
It's a comforting and delicious meal that's sure to become a staple in your household.
The recipe is highly customizable, so you can make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients or spices.
It's a great option for beginners or experienced cooks alike, as it's easy to follow and requires minimal expertise.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a great macaroni and cheese bake is in the layering of the ingredients. By alternating between pasta, sauce, and cheese, we create a dish that's both creamy and textured. The pasta provides a nice base, while the sauce adds moisture and flavor. The cheese, of course, is the star of the show, melting beautifully and creating a golden-brown crust.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the use of a combination of cheeses. By mixing different types of cheese, we create a rich and complex flavor profile that's sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. And, by using a variety of cheeses with different melting points, we ensure that the sauce stays creamy and smooth.

Finally, the resting time is crucial in this recipe. By letting the macaroni and cheese bake rest for a few minutes before serving, we allow the sauce to set and the flavors to meld together. This makes a big difference in the overall texture and flavor of the dish, and it's definitely worth the wait.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making a great macaroni and cheese bake, the ingredients are just as important as the technique. In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of pasta, cheese, and sauce to create a rich and creamy dish. We'll also be adding some extra ingredients to give it a bit of flavor and texture.

When shopping for the ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality pasta and cheese. The pasta should be al dente, while the cheese should be a combination of cheddar, parmesan, and mozzarella. You can also add some extra ingredients, such as cooked bacon or ham, to give it a bit of smokiness.

1 lb (450g) macaroniChoose a high-quality macaroni that's al dente and has a nice texture. You can also use other types of pasta, such as shells or elbows, if you prefer.
2 cups (220g) grated cheddar cheeseA combination of cheddar and other cheeses, such as parmesan and mozzarella, is perfect for this recipe. You can also add some extra cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, to give it a bit of tanginess.
1 cup (115g) grated mozzarella cheeseMozzarella cheese adds a nice creaminess to the dish and helps to bind the ingredients together. You can also use other types of cheese, such as provolone or gouda, if you prefer.
1/2 cup (55g) grated parmesan cheeseParmesan cheese adds a nice salty flavor to the dish and helps to balance out the sweetness of the pasta and sauce. You can also use other types of cheese, such as romano or asiago, if you prefer.
1/4 cup (55g) all-purpose flourThe flour helps to thicken the sauce and create a nice texture. You can also use other types of flour, such as whole wheat or gluten-free, if you prefer.
2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butterThe butter adds a nice richness to the dish and helps to create a creamy sauce. You can also use other types of fat, such as oil or margarine, if you prefer.
1/2 cup (120ml) whole milkThe milk helps to create a creamy sauce and adds a nice moisture to the dish. You can also use other types of milk, such as skim or almond, if you prefer.
1/2 tsp (2g) saltThe salt helps to balance out the flavors in the dish and adds a nice depth to the sauce. You can also use other types of seasoning, such as pepper or herbs, to give it a bit of flavor.
1/4 tsp (1g) black pepperThe pepper adds a nice kick to the dish and helps to balance out the sweetness of the pasta and sauce. You can also use other types of seasoning, such as paprika or garlic powder, to give it a bit of flavor.
2 cups (120g) panko breadcrumbsThe breadcrumbs add a nice crunch to the dish and help to create a golden-brown crust. You can also use other types of breadcrumbs, such as whole wheat or gluten-free, if you prefer.
2 tbsp (30g) chopped fresh parsleyThe parsley adds a nice freshness to the dish and helps to balance out the richness of the sauce. You can also use other types of herbs, such as basil or thyme, if you prefer.

Ingredients for Macaroni And Cheese Bake

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or sauté panMedium saucepanLarge mixing bowl9x13 inch baking dishInstant-read thermometerCheese graterMeasuring cups and spoons

How to Make Macaroni And Cheese Bake

1
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Drain and set aside.
3
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
4
Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until it thickens.
5
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and chopped parsley. Mix well to combine.
7
Transfer the macaroni mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish and top with the panko breadcrumbs.
8
Dot the top of the breadcrumbs with the unsalted butter.
9
Bake the macaroni and cheese in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
10
Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
11
Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips

To avoid a soggy crust, make sure to not overmix the breadcrumb topping.
If you want a crisper crust, you can broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes.
You can customize the recipe by adding your favorite ingredients, such as cooked bacon or ham.
To make the dish more substantial, you can add some protein, such as cooked chicken or beef.
You can also use other types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, to give the dish a bit of tanginess.
To make the dish ahead of time, you can prepare the sauce and macaroni mixture, then assemble and bake when you're ready.
You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months, then thaw and bake when you're ready.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not cooking the pasta until it's al dente, resulting in a mushy texture.
Not whisking the sauce constantly, resulting in lumps.
Not seasoning the sauce enough, resulting in a bland flavor.
Overmixing the breadcrumb topping, resulting in a soggy crust.
Not letting the dish rest before serving, resulting in a sauce that's not set.
Not using high-quality cheese, resulting in a dish that's not creamy and rich.

Variations and Substitutions

Adding some spice to the dish, such as red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos.
Using different types of pasta, such as shells or elbows.
Adding some smokiness to the dish, such as cooked bacon or ham.
Using other types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese.
Adding some freshness to the dish, such as chopped parsley or basil.
Using other types of breadcrumbs, such as whole wheat or gluten-free.
Adding some protein to the dish, such as cooked chicken or beef.

What to Serve With Macaroni And Cheese Bake

This macaroni and cheese bake is perfect as a main dish or as a side dish. You can serve it with a variety of options, such as a green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables.

Some other ideas for serving this dish include:

Garlic bread: a classic combination that's easy to make and always a hit.

Roasted vegetables: such as broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts, which add a nice contrast in texture and flavor.

Green salad: a simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great way to cut the richness of the dish.

Grilled meat: such as chicken, steak, or pork chops, which add a nice protein component to the meal.

Garlic breadRoasted vegetablesGreen saladGrilled meatSauteed spinachRoasted potatoes

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

This macaroni and cheese bake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

To store in the refrigerator, let the dish cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot and bubbly.

To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Label and date the dish, then store it in the freezer. When you're ready to eat it, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the oven or microwave until hot and bubbly.

Some tips for reheating the dish include:

Using a low oven temperature, such as 300°F (150°C), to prevent the crust from burning.

Adding a little bit of milk or cream to the dish to help it reheat evenly and prevent it from drying out.

Stirring the dish occasionally as it reheats to prevent the sauce from separating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce and macaroni mixture ahead of time, then assemble and bake when you're ready. You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months, then thaw and bake when you're ready.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes, you can use other types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese, to give the dish a bit of tanginess. Just be sure to adjust the amount of cheese to your taste.

Can I add some protein to the dish?

Yes, you can add some protein, such as cooked chicken or beef, to the dish to make it more substantial. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly and use a gluten-free flour to make the sauce.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Just cook the pasta and sauce separately, then combine them in the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours.

Can I freeze the dish after it's been baked?

Yes, you can freeze the dish after it's been baked. Just let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.

How do I reheat the dish?

You can reheat the dish in the oven or microwave. Just be sure to stir the dish occasionally as it reheats to prevent the sauce from separating.

Can I make this recipe in a larger or smaller size?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a larger or smaller size. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and ingredients accordingly.

The Full Recipe

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