YT Recipe

Baked Mac & Cheese!

Baked Mac & Cheese! is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 520 calories per serving. Recipe by Eatwitzo on YouTube.

Prep: 30 min | Cook: 25 min | Total: 1 hr 10 min

Cost: $11.24 total, $2.81 per serving

Ingredients

  • 8 oz Macaroni Noodles (elbow shape preferred, uncooked)
  • 2 cans Evaporated Milk (12 fl oz each, full‑fat for richness)
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese (freshly shredded)
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese (freshly shredded)
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
  • 1/4 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Adobo Seasoning
  • to taste Salt (for pasta water and seasoning)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta

    Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, add a generous pinch of salt, then add the macaroni noodles. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente.

    Time: PT12M

  2. Grate the Cheeses

    While the pasta cooks, grate the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses using a fine grater. Set the shredded cheese aside in a bowl.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce Base

    In a medium saucepan, pour in the two cans of evaporated milk. Add the adobo seasoning, ground black pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat over low heat, stirring gently.

    Time: PT5M

  4. Thicken the Sauce with Cheese

    Gradually add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella to the warm milk, stirring constantly. Continue cooking on low until the mixture thickens into a smooth, velvety sauce that coats the back of a spoon.

    Time: PT5M

  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

    Drain the cooked macaroni in the colander and transfer it to the prepared baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the noodles, then toss gently until every piece is fully coated.

    Time: PT5M

  6. Add a Final Milk Touch

    Drizzle a small splash (about 2‑3 Tbsp) of extra evaporated milk over the top of the assembled dish for extra creaminess before baking.

    Time: PT1M

  7. Bake Until Golden

    Place the baking dish in a pre‑heated oven at 350°F and bake for 20‑25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.

    Time: PT20M

    Temperature: 350°F

  8. Rest and Serve

    Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the sauce to set and makes serving easier.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
520
Protein
20 g
Carbohydrates
45 g
Fat
25 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian

Allergens: Dairy, Gluten

Last updated: April 16, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Baked Mac & Cheese!

Recipe by Eatwitzo

A creamy, cheesy baked macaroni dish that’s the star of the Thanksgiving table. Made with freshly grated cheese and rich evaporated milk, this easy side is golden‑brown, comforting, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

EasyAmericanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
11m
Prep
47m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 8m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$11.24
Total cost
$2.81
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • • Cooking the pasta to al dente prevents it from becoming mushy after baking.
  • • Grating cheese fresh ensures a smooth melt and richer flavor.
  • • Thickening the cheese sauce on low heat avoids scorching and yields a velvety texture.
  • • Coating every noodle evenly with sauce is essential for flavor balance.
  • • Baking until golden brown creates a desirable crust while keeping the interior creamy.

Safety Warnings

  • • Handle boiling water and hot pasta with care to avoid burns.
  • • Use oven mitts when placing and removing the baking dish from the oven.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of baked mac and cheese in American Thanksgiving celebrations?

A

Macaroni and cheese became a staple comfort food in the United States during the 19th century and was later adopted as a hearty side for Thanksgiving because it pairs well with turkey and offers a creamy, kid‑friendly option.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of mac and cheese in the United States?

A

In the South, mac and cheese often includes a breadcrumb topping and uses sharp cheddar, while in the Northeast a smoother, béchamel‑based sauce with Gruyère is common. This recipe blends the Southern richness with a simple baked finish.

cultural
Q

How is baked mac and cheese traditionally served in American Thanksgiving meals?

A

It is typically served hot from the oven in a casserole dish, placed alongside mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and turkey, allowing guests to scoop a cheesy portion onto their plates.

cultural
Q

What occasions besides Thanksgiving is baked mac and cheese popular in American cuisine?

A

Baked mac and cheese is a favorite at family gatherings, potlucks, football‑watch parties, and as a comforting weeknight dinner because it can be prepared ahead and feeds a crowd.

cultural
Q

How does baked mac and cheese fit into the broader American comfort‑food tradition?

A

It exemplifies the American love for dairy‑rich, indulgent dishes that combine convenience (canned evaporated milk) with homemade touches (freshly grated cheese), making it both nostalgic and adaptable.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for classic American baked mac and cheese versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Traditional recipes call for elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar, milk or cream, and butter. This version uses evaporated milk for richness; substitutes include whole milk plus butter or half‑and‑half, and other melt‑friendly cheeses like Colby or Monterey Jack.

cultural
Q

What other American dishes pair well with baked mac and cheese on a Thanksgiving table?

A

It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, honey‑glazed carrots, and a simple mixed green salad to balance the richness.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making baked mac and cheese at home?

A

Common errors include overcooking the pasta, using pre‑shredded cheese that contains anti‑caking agents, and baking at too high a temperature which can dry out the sauce. Follow the timing and low‑heat sauce steps for best results.

technical
Q

Why does this baked mac and cheese recipe use evaporated milk instead of regular milk or cream?

A

Evaporated milk adds a richer, slightly caramelized flavor and reduces the water content, resulting in a thicker sauce without the need for extra flour or roux, making the recipe quicker and more shelf‑stable.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Eatwitzo specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Eatwitzo focuses on easy, family‑friendly comfort food recipes, often with a holiday or seasonal twist, and emphasizes straightforward techniques that home cooks can master quickly.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Eatwitzo's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?

A

Eatwitzo blends classic comfort dishes with practical shortcuts—like using canned evaporated milk—while still encouraging fresh ingredients such as freshly grated cheese, offering a balance of convenience and flavor that sets it apart from more gourmet‑focused channels.

channel
More like this:American RecipesSide Dish RecipesMore by Eatwitzo

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

How to make the EASIEST Creamiest and Cheesiest Oven-Baked MAC & CHEESE
27

How to make the EASIEST Creamiest and Cheesiest Oven-Baked MAC & CHEESE

A super‑easy, ultra‑creamy and cheesy baked macaroni and cheese that’s perfect for a comforting family dinner. The recipe walks you through cooking the pasta, making a rich cheese sauce from scratch, and finishing it in the oven for a golden crust.

1 hr 29 minServes 6$8
American
How To Make The Best Macaroni and Cheese
3

How To Make The Best Macaroni and Cheese

A rich, cheesy baked macaroni casserole that uses a silky egg‑milk custard for extra creaminess. Layered with smoked Gouda, cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella, this comfort‑food favorite is topped with a golden crust and perfect for family dinners.

1 hr 25 minServes 6$10
American
How to Make the Creamiest Mac and Cheese Ever
2

How to Make the Creamiest Mac and Cheese Ever

A step‑by‑step guide to the ultimate baked mac and cheese with a velvety roux‑based sauce, sharp shredded cheeses, a hint of cream cheese, and a crunchy panko‑Parmesan topping. Perfect for a comforting dinner or a holiday side dish.

1 hr 29 minServes 6$9
American
Top Winning Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe!
14

Top Winning Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe!

A rich, ultra‑cheesy baked macaroni dish with a thick, custard‑like sauce. Made with a blend of Monterey Jack, white cheddar, sharp cheddar, mozzarella, Velveeta, cream cheese, sour cream and a secret touch of sweetened condensed milk, this Southern‑style comfort food bakes up golden and crispy on top while staying creamy inside.

1 hr 38 minServes 8$21
American (Southern)
AMAZING Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
3

AMAZING Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe

A rich, creamy baked mac and cheese made with sharp cheddar and Gruyère, a silky béchamel sauce, and a crunchy toasted panko topping. Perfect for a comforting dinner or a crowd‑pleasing side.

1 hr 30 minServes 8$16
American
SUPER EASY!!! CREAMY BAKED MAC N CHEESE RECIPE
7

SUPER EASY!!! CREAMY BAKED MAC N CHEESE RECIPE

A comforting, oven‑baked macaroni and cheese with a velvety cheese sauce made from butter, flour, milk, evaporated milk, white and medium cheddar, and a blend of savory seasonings. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

1 hr 8 minServes 6$11
American
Southern Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe
4

Southern Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe

A rich, creamy, and cheesy baked mac and cheese inspired by a family recipe. Layers of shredded and cubed cheeses give a perfect melt and pull, while a custard made with eggs, evaporated milk, and whole milk keeps it ultra‑creamy. Finished with a golden crust of smoked paprika and parsley, this side dish is perfect for barbecues, Sunday dinners, or any comfort‑food craving.

1 hr 35 minServes 8$33
American
Baked Macaroni & Cheese Recipe
2

Baked Macaroni & Cheese Recipe

A creamy, cheesy baked macaroni dish without eggs, using Velveeta, sharp cheddar, and Monterey Jack for a rich sauce. The recipe features a smooth cheese sauce made with evaporated milk and a hint of red annatto dye for color, baked to a golden crust. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or a comforting weeknight dinner.

1 hr 35 minServes 8$14
American
🔥 Trending Recipes← All Recipes