You Won't Believe How EASY This Crusty Baked Macaroni Recipe Is

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheese lowers calories while maintaining flavor.

cream cheese

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: sour cream

Greek yogurt adds creaminess with fewer calories.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier for sautéing.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: evaporated milk

Almond milk is lower in calories, evaporated milk is cost-effective.

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk until smooth, about 1-2 minutes.

Gradually add milk, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth.

Add cheddar cheese, mustard powder, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.

Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce and mix well.

Pour the macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish.

In a small bowl, mix bread crumbs with melted butter and cayenne pepper. Sprinkle over the macaroni.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens