Cheesy Pasta Bake
Creamy, bubbly, and utterly comforting, this Cheesy Pasta Bake is the ultimate cozy meal.
Total: 45 minPrep: 15 minCook: 30 min6 servings
Ingredients
Servings:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Steps
- 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
- 2 Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain.
- 3 In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux.
- 4 Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until thickened.
- 5 Stir in salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- 6 Remove from heat and mix in cheddar and mozzarella until smooth.
- 7 Combine macaroni and cheese sauce in a baking dish.
- 8 Mix breadcrumbs and Parmesan, sprinkle over top.
- 9 Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- 10 Let stand 5 minutes before serving.
Nutrition
Calories:
420 kcal
Tips
- Customize with veggies like spinach or diced tomatoes.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp Caesar salad.
- Serve with garlic bread for a complete meal.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the bake and refrigerate for up to a day, then bake when ready.