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–+ servings
Benjamin

Easy Oven-Baked Mac and Cheese

This Oven-Baked Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, with creamy layers of cheese, perfectly cooked macaroni, and a golden, bubbly crust. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving something rich and satisfying, this recipe is easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 –8 servings
Course: Main Dish, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cups cooked elbow macaroni about 8 ounces, cooked al dente according to package directions
  • 4 tablespoons butter cut into small pieces
  • 2 cups Colby jack or cheddar cheese cubed
  • 8 ounces shredded Colby jack or cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 large eggs beaten
  • 2 ½ cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream

Method
 

Preheat the Oven:
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
Cook the Macaroni:
  1. Prepare the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, cooking it al dente.
  2. Drain the cooked pasta and set it aside.
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
Layer the Ingredients:
  1. Spread half of the cooked macaroni in an even layer at the bottom of the greased baking dish.
  2. Top with half of the butter pieces, half of the cubed cheese, and half of the shredded cheese.
  3. Gently pour half of the egg mixture over the layered ingredients.
Repeat the Layers:
  1. Add the remaining macaroni on top.
  2. Repeat with the remaining butter, cubed cheese, shredded cheese, and egg mixture.
Bake:
  1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40–50 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and slightly golden on top.
Let It Rest:
  1. Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 10–15 minutes before serving.
  2. Spoon out portions or cut into generous cubes and enjoy!

Notes

  • Pasta Tips: Cook the macaroni al dente to ensure it doesn’t become mushy during baking.
  • Cheese Options: While Colby jack and cheddar are classics, you can mix in gouda, gruyere, or mozzarella for different flavor profiles.
  • Crunchy Topping: For added texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

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