noodles and cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best noodles and cheese recipe

I have been making this noodles and cheese recipe for years and it is one of those dishes that never fails to please. It is a simple, comforting meal that my kids absolutely love. I first started making it when my youngest was a toddler and needed something soft and easy to eat. Now it is a staple in our home for busy weeknights when I need to get dinner on the table fast.

The best part is that it uses ingredients I usually have on hand, like pasta, cheese, and milk. It is also a great way to sneak in some extra vegetables if I add a little broccoli or peas. This recipe is not just about convenience. It is also a balanced meal that provides protein from the cheese and milk, and carbohydrates from the noodles for energy.

I like that I can control the amount of salt and fat by using low fat cheese and milk. Plus, it is a dish that everyone can customize with their favorite toppings, like a sprinkle of paprika or some fresh herbs. My family loves it just as it is, but sometimes I add a layer of breadcrumbs on top for a little crunch. When I make this noodles and cheese recipe, I use a simple stovetop method that creates a creamy sauce without any fuss.

The key is to make a roux with butter and flour, then slowly whisk in milk until it thickens. Then I stir in shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a smooth sauce. I pour this over cooked noodles and bake it in the oven until it is bubbly and golden on top. The whole process takes about 30 minutes, and the smell that fills the kitchen is wonderful.

This dish is perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a potluck with friends. It is also a great make ahead meal because you can assemble it and refrigerate it until you are ready to bake. I often double the recipe and freeze one batch for later. It is a real lifesaver on those days when I do not have time to cook from scratch.

I hope you and your family enjoy this noodles and cheese recipe as much as mine does.

Creamy Baked Noodles and Cheese

4.5 from 1897 votes

This creamy baked noodles and cheese recipe is a comforting family favorite. It features a rich cheddar cheese sauce baked over tender pasta until golden and bubbly.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz elbow macaroni or similar short pasta
1 tablespoon salt for pasta water

For the Cheese Sauce

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
3Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
5In a medium saucepan, melt the 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
6Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
7This is your roux and it should be a light golden color.
8Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
9Add the dry mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne if using.
10Continue to cook over medium heat, whisking often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
11You will see bubbles start to form on the surface.
12Remove the saucepan from the heat.
13Add the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses a handful at a time, stirring gently until each addition is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
14Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
15The sauce should be creamy and thick.
16Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until all the pasta is evenly coated.
17Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
18In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top.
19Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crispy.
20Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
21The top should be crunchy and the inside creamy and hot.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Medium saucepan
Whisk
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 55mg🧂Sodium: 520mg🌾Total Carbs: 38g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 16g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use low fat milk and reduced fat cheese. You can also add cooked broccoli, peas, or ham to make it a complete meal. If the sauce seems too thick after adding the cheese, stir in a splash of milk.

Watch Video Of How Creamy Baked Noodles and Cheese Works

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely then cover the baking dish with foil or transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, I like to use the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15 minutes to bring back the crispy topping. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but the texture will be softer.

This noodles and cheese recipe is always a good idea for family gatherings because it is easy to make in large batches and everyone loves it. It travels well to potlucks and can be kept warm in a slow cooker.

I often serve it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It is a reliable dish that brings comfort and smiles to the table every time.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Baked Noodles and Cheese

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any short pasta like shells, rotini, or penne. The cooking time may vary slightly, so check the package directions for al dente. Avoid long pasta like spaghetti as it does not mix as well with the sauce.

2. How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

To keep the sauce smooth, shred the cheese from a block instead of using pre shredded cheese which often has anti caking agents. Also, add the cheese off the heat and stir gently until just melted. Overheating can cause the sauce to separate.

3. Can I make this noodles and cheese recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble the dish completely but do not bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add about 10 extra minutes to the cooking time since it will be cold. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

4. What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs for the topping?

You can use regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers like Ritz, or even crushed potato chips for a different texture. If you want a gluten free option, use crushed gluten free crackers or omit the topping entirely.

5. How do I reheat leftover noodles and cheese?

For best results, reheat in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the topping will not stay crispy. Add a splash of milk before reheating to restore creaminess.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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