Your kids are going to love this easy Baked Macaroni and Cheese! My kids love the basic boxed Mac and Cheese, but honestly, I can only handle so much of it before I get sick of it. This recipe is a wonderful alternative to eating out of the box that makes everyone happy.
- 1 Pound of Elbow Macaroni
- 5 Tablespoons of Butter
- 5 Tablespoons of Flour
- 3 Cups of Milk
- 1 Pound Block of Cheese
Preheat the Oven to 400 degrees and set a pot of water on the stove to boil for the Elbow Macaroni. Follow the directions for cooking the macaroni and set aside. Most likely by the time the Macaroni is done, your cheese sauce will be ready.
While the water is boiling, melt the butter over medium heat in the other pot. When the butter is melted, turn the heat down to low and add the flour. Quickly whisk mixture until it is bubbling slightly, then turn off the heat. Slowly add the milk, one cup at a time, whisking while you go.
Return the mixture to the heat and slowly bring to a light boil, then simmer for about 3-4 minutes. You will need to stir almost continuously during this time.
Shred the 1 pound block of cheese and mix into the butter and flour mixture. Mix it together for a minute or so, it will melt and blend quickly. Add the Elbow Macaroni and mix well.
Pour the whole mixture into large baking dish and bake at 400 degrees for 25-35 minutes. It will be done when the center of the dish is bubbling.
Serve with some veggies and enjoy your dinner!
Some Quick Additions and Variations:
Cover the Mac and cheese with sliced tomatoes…YUM!
Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the Mac and cheese.
Cover with sliced tomatoes, and then sprinkle on breadcrumbs.
Saute some onions in the butter and add fresh herbs before adding the flour.
Cube a few seasoned chicken breasts and add them to the mix after the macaroni.
Add left over chicken, turkey or cubed burgers to the mix after the macaroni.
Open the fridge, check out your leftovers and toss them in, be creative and have fun!
[...] prefer my own Crock Pot Mac and Cheese, or Deep Dish Mac and Cheese over boxed any day, but I never pass up a chance to stock up on Kraft Macaroni & Cheese. [...]