Simple macaroni cheese | Crispy Baked Mac and Cheese with Bread Crumbs | Thanksgiving Sides

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheese lowers calories while processed cheese is often less expensive.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil provides healthier fats while margarine is a budget-friendly alternative.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: water + cornstarch

Almond milk is lower in calories, and a cornstarch mixture can mimic creaminess.

elbow macaroni

🥗Healthier: whole wheat pasta

💰Cheaper: generic pasta

Whole wheat pasta adds fiber while generic options are often cheaper.

Boil water in a large pot and add macaroni; cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

Drain the macaroni and set aside.

In the same pot, melt unsalted butter over medium heat until bubbling.

Whisk in all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.

Gradually add whole milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.

Stir in sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Add red chilli flakes and black pepper; mix well.

Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until evenly coated.

Transfer to a baking dish and sprinkle bread crumbs on top.

Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until golden and bubbly, about 20-25 minutes.

Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens