Old-School Baked Mac & Cheese (No Flour Roux!)

Comfort food + comfort reads = perfect night in.

Cozy Comfort in Every Bite

This isn’t your basic boxed mac. This is the real deal—layered elbow noodles, slices of rich block cheese (hello, Cracker Barrel cheddar), shredded mozzarella, buttery breadcrumbs, and a pour of warm milk and butter to bring it all together.

If you grew up with simple baked mac and cheese, this version is a nostalgic upgrade that still comes together easily. No flour, no roux—just smart layering and comfort-forward flavor. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug from the oven.

It’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug from the oven. And honestly? It’s perfect for curling up with your latest book club pick or diving into a good read on a slow Sunday afternoon.

Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Topping

Creamy comfort food for cozy nights in with your current read

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Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 box large elbow noodles
• 1 block Cracker Barrel cheddar cheese, sliced
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (adjust to preference)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (no salt)
• 1 cup milk
• Olive oil, for drizzling

Golden, cheesy, and packed with flavor—our baked pasta recipe is pure comfort in a bowl.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook noodles according to package directions until just al dente. Drain.
3. In a casserole dish, begin layering: pasta, sliced block cheese, then a light sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
4. Repeat layers until the dish is full, finishing with extra block cheese on top.
5. Heat butter and milk together in a pan or microwave until just simmering (do not boil).
6. Slowly pour the warm mixture over the casserole in a circular motion to help it soak into all the layers.
7. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and finish with a drizzle of olive oil for crispness.
8. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until top is golden and edges are bubbly.

🧀 Want to Kick It Up a Notch?

Looking to turn your mac into the main event or add some gourmet flair? Try mixing in or layering these options before baking:

Meaty Add-Ins

• Pulled Pork – BBQ pork makes this mac a smoky, savory favorite.
• Lobster or Crab – Add cooked seafood for a decadent twist.
• Diced Ham or Crumbled Bacon – Perfect for leftover meats or brunch vibes.

Veggie Boosters

• Spinach or Broccoli – Thawed frozen spinach (well-drained) or steamed broccoli for a fiber-filled option.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes – Drain well and fold in for a bright, tangy layer.
• Roasted Veggies – Zucchini, peppers, or mushrooms add depth and color.

Spice It Up

• Pickled Jalapeños – Add some kick between the cheese layers or on top.
• Smoked Paprika or Cayenne – Stir into the warm milk-butter mixture before pouring.

Pro Tip: If you’re mixing in moisture-rich ingredients like tomatoes or spinach, reduce or eliminate the milk to avoid a watery sauce. You can also bake it a bit longer, uncovered, to ensure a crisp golden top.

Final Thoughts

This mac and cheese is more than a side—it’s a warm memory waiting to happen. Perfect for cozy reading nights and book club dinners.

Customize it, bake it, and serve it as-is or alongside a simple salad and crusty bread. Don't forget to tag @foreverbklover on Instagram if you give it your own twist!

Savor the Story. Savor the Flavor.

Pair your next read with a cozy recipe that's as comforting as the plot twists! Whether you're planning a book club night or curling up solo, you'll find curated dishes and book matchups that bring your reading to life.

🍽️ Explore Reading Pairings