Mac And Cheese Casserole

Name: Mac And Cheese Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup butter; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the comfort of a classic Mac and Cheese Casserole that combines creamy cheese sauce with perfectly cooked pasta and a crunchy topping for a satisfying meal. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or simply a cozy night in. Bake it to golden perfection and watch it disappear from the table in no time!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-11-21T04:45:59.457Z

This Mac and Cheese Casserole encapsulates the essence of comfort food. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it's a dish that feels like a warm hug.

The Perfect Comfort Food

Mac and Cheese Casserole is a quintessential comfort food that brings back fond memories of childhood meals and family gatherings. Its warm, creamy texture and rich flavor make it a beloved dish for many. Not only is it satisfying, but the blend of cheeses creates a depth of flavor that will please even the pickiest eaters. It's the kind of dish that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are.

This casserole elevates the classic mac and cheese by incorporating a crunchy breadcrumb topping that adds a delightful contrast to the creamy base. The fusion of gooey cheese and perfectly cooked pasta melds harmoniously with the crispiness of the breadcrumbs, resulting in a dish that is both comforting and exciting to eat. This recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of this Mac and Cheese Casserole is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a bit of a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. If you're looking to increase the nutritional value, think about mixing in cooked vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or cauliflower. Not only does this make the dish healthier, but it also adds color and texture.

This casserole can also cater to various diets. For a gluten-free option, substitute traditional elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. Want a lighter version? Swap out regular cheese for low-fat varieties and use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make every batch of this dish unique to your style and preferences.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a gathering of friends, or a potluck event, Mac and Cheese Casserole fits the bill. Its ease of preparation means you can have it ready in no time, allowing you to focus on enjoying the company rather than spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it serves a crowd, making it an excellent choice for occasions where you need to feed multiple people.

Leftovers? No problem! This casserole stores well and can be reheated for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just pop it in the oven, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready in minutes, preserving its delicious taste and texture. This Mac and Cheese Casserole truly exemplifies effortless cooking while delivering comfort and flavor.

Ingredients

For the Casserole

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before use!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cheese until melted.

Combine Ingredients

Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until well coated.

Assemble the Casserole

Pour the mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top.

Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Mac and Cheese Casserole turns out perfectly, be sure not to overcook the pasta. It should have a slight bite to it before you combine it with the cheese sauce, as it will continue cooking in the oven. Additionally, choose high-quality cheese for the best flavor. A blend of sharp cheddar and mild cheddar gives a rich taste profile that elevates the dish.

When mixing in the cheese sauce, make sure the pasta is well-coated. You may need to adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding a little more milk if it seems too thick. This will help achieve that creamy texture that is characteristic of a great mac and cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Mac and Cheese Casserole can be just as delightful as making it. Pair it with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. A simple dressing of olive oil and lemon juice will enhance the flavors without overpowering the meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables, creating a well-rounded plate.

For a fun twist, offer additional toppings at the table. Crispy bacon bits, chopped fresh herbs, or even crumbled spicy sausage can take your casserole to the next level. These additions allow guests to personalize their servings, making each bite a unique experience.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers (though this dish tends to disappear quickly), store the Mac and Cheese Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three to four days. When reheating, add a splash of milk to the casserole to restore its creamy texture. This ensures that the pasta doesn’t dry out and maintains that delightful consistency you love.

For best results, reheat the casserole in the oven for even heating. Cover it with foil to prevent the top from burning and remove it in the last few minutes to allow the top to get crispy again. This way, you'll enjoy a delicious meal that tastes just as good as when it was freshly baked.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and bake it when ready.