Forktionary

Baked Macaroni Recipe

This baked macaroni recipe delivers cheesy, comforting goodness with an irresistible crispy Ritz cracker topping! The glass baking dish lets you watch the beautiful browning as it bakes, creating perfectly crispy edges and a golden-brown crust. Your family will rave about this classic comfort food, elevated with a crunchy, buttery topping.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 80 mins
Calories 697.1 kcal
Protein 49g
Rating 4.0 (9 Reviews)
Baked Macaroni

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Baked Macaroni

  • Ziti Pasta
  • Velveeta Cheese
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • Salt And Pepper
  • Ritz Cracker

How to Make Baked Macaroni

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour until smooth.
  3. Gradually whisk in 2 cups milk until smooth and thickened. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
  4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
  5. Stir in 1 pound cooked ziti pasta.
  6. Grease a 9x13 inch glass baking dish with 1 tablespoon butter.
  7. Pour macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  8. In a separate bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups Ritz cracker crumbs with 1/4 cup melted butter until evenly moistened.
  9. Sprinkle Ritz cracker mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
  10. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Small additions can make a big impact! Try a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of your favorite spice blend, or a squeeze of citrus just before serving to really enhance the flavors of your dish.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

53 g

Sugar

32g

Fat

110g

Carbs

23g

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Weeknight Time To Make Course Preparation Casseroles Main Dish Oven Dietary Equipment 4 Hours Or Less