Here’s a classic, easy baked macaroni (mac & cheese) recipe you can make at home 🧀
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups milk (warm)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar is classic; mix with mozzarella if you like)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- ½ tsp mustard powder or paprika (optional)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 1 tbsp melted butter (for breadcrumbs)
Instructions
- Cook macaroni
Boil macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside. - Make the cheese sauce
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually whisk in warm milk until smooth.
- Cook until slightly thickened.
- Lower heat and add cheese, salt, pepper, and spices. Stir until melted.
- Combine
Mix macaroni with the cheese sauce and pour into a greased baking dish. - Add topping (optional)
Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top. - Bake
Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden. - Rest & serve
Let it rest 5 minutes before serving.
Optional Add-Ins
- Cooked chicken or minced beef
- Sautéed onions or bell peppers
- A little cream for extra richness
- Parmesan on top for deeper flavor
If you want, I can give you:
- A no-oven version
- A spicy or Nigerian-style baked macaroni
- A healthier or kid-friendly version
