Mac and Cheese Oven Baked Recipe

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Lower calorie option or more budget-friendly.

elbow macaroni

🥗Healthier: whole grain pasta

💰Cheaper: any pasta shape

More nutritious or versatile.

Bring water to a boil in a large pot and add a little bit of salt.

Add elbow macaroni and boil for 9 to 10 minutes until al dente.

In a separate saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat.

Add flour to the melted butter and cook until the flour browns slightly.

Stir in milk, garlic powder, salt, pepper, tomato paste, turmeric, and fresh nutmeg.

Add a little bit of pecorino Romano cheese for flavor.

Once the milk mixture starts to simmer, turn off the heat and add pre-shredded cheese, medium cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese.

Mix well until the cheese is melted and combined with the sauce.

Drain the al dente elbow macaroni and mix it with the cheese sauce.

Preheat the oven to 375°F.

Layer the mac and cheese in a baking dish: first layer of cheese sauce, then macaroni, then another layer of cheese sauce, and finally a top layer of cheese.

Bake in the oven for about 15 minutes, then add 5 extra minutes for a total of 20 minutes.

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens