Baked Macaroni and cheese | how to make Mac and cheese | creamy Mac and cheese recipe| Macarrones

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheddar

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheddar lowers calories while processed cheese is more affordable.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: water + powdered milk

Almond milk is lower in calories, while the powdered milk is a cost-effective alternative.

parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor with fewer calories, while pecorino is often less expensive.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier for cooking, while margarine is a cheaper fat option.

Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat; add milk and stir until combined.

Add cheddar cheese and American cheese; stir until melted and smooth.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add ham to the cheese mixture; stir to combine.

Combine cheese sauce with cooked macaroni; stir until well coated.

Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake until bubbly and golden.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens