How To Make The Best Macaroni and Cheese
How To Make The Best Macaroni and Cheese is a medium American recipe that serves 6. 450 calories per serving. Recipe by OneStopChop on YouTube.
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 50 min | Total: 1 hr 25 min
Cost: $10.35 total, $1.73 per serving
Ingredients
- 1 lb Elbow Macaroni (dry pasta)
- 1 piece Large Egg (room temperature)
- 2 cups Evaporated Milk (canned, unsweetened)
- 1 cup Whole Milk (2% or whole)
- 2 oz Smoked Gouda (shredded)
- 4 oz Cheddar Cheese (shredded, sharp)
- 4 oz Monterey Jack Cheese (shredded)
- 4 oz Mozzarella Cheese (shredded, for middle layer)
- 2 Tbsp Unsalted Butter (softened, cut into cubes)
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream (full‑fat)
- 1 Tbsp Salt (for pasta water)
- 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper (freshly ground)
- 1/2 tsp Smoked Paprika (adds smoky flavor)
- 1/2 tsp Ground Mustard (dry mustard powder)
Instructions
Shred and Cube Cheeses
Shred half of each cheese (Smoked Gouda, Cheddar, Monterey Jack) and cube the remaining half. Set aside in separate bowls.
Time: PT10M
Boil Pasta
Fill a large pot with water, add 1 Tbsp salt, and bring to a rolling boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just short of al dente (about 8 minutes). Stir occasionally and do not add oil.
Time: PT13M
Temperature: 100°C
Prepare Egg Custard
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the egg, 2 cups evaporated milk, and 1 cup whole milk until smooth and slightly frothy.
Time: PT5M
Drain Pasta
When the pasta is just shy of al dente, drain it in a colander and return it to the pot or a large bowl.
Time: PT2M
Combine Pasta with Butter, Sour Cream, and Cheese
Add the softened butter, sour cream, and half of the shredded cheese mixture to the hot pasta. Stir until the butter melts and the cheese begins to melt into the pasta.
Time: PT3M
Incorporate Custard
Slowly pour the egg‑milk custard over the pasta mixture, stirring gently to coat evenly. The mixture should look creamy and glossy.
Time: PT2M
Season the Mixture
Season the casserole with 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, and 1/2 tsp ground mustard. Mix well.
Time: PT1M
Layer in Baking Dish
Spread half of the pasta‑custard mixture into a greased 9x13‑inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella evenly over this layer. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, then finish with the remaining shredded cheese blend.
Time: PT5M
First Bake (Covered)
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in a pre‑heated oven at 190°C for 20 minutes.
Time: PT20M
Temperature: 190°C
Second Bake (Uncovered)
Remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes, or until the top is golden‑brown and a crust forms.
Time: PT20M
Temperature: 190°C
Rest Before Serving
Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes out of the oven. This helps the sauce set and makes slicing easier.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 450
- Protein
- 20g
- Carbohydrates
- 45g
- Fat
- 20g
- Fiber
- 2g
Dietary info: Vegetarian
Allergens: Dairy, Egg, Gluten
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Elbow Macaroni: penne, corkscrew pasta
- Instead of Large Egg: egg replacer
- Instead of Evaporated Milk: half‑and‑half, heavy cream diluted
- Instead of Whole Milk: any milk
- Instead of Smoked Gouda: smoked cheddar
- Instead of Cheddar Cheese: colby
- Instead of Monterey Jack Cheese: colby jack
- Instead of Mozzarella Cheese: provolone
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: margarine
- Instead of Sour Cream: Greek yogurt
- Instead of Smoked Paprika: regular paprika
- Instead of Ground Mustard: dry mustard
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Grater
- Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Baking Dish
- Aluminum Foil (optional)
- Oven
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Shred and Cube Cheeses
- Boil Pasta
- Incorporate Custard
- First Bake (Covered)
- Second Bake (Uncovered)
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use cold butter to keep the sauce from separating
- Smoked Gouda adds a deep, smoky flavor that elevates the classic mac and cheese
- For an extra crunch, sprinkle a thin layer of panko breadcrumbs on the final cheese topping before the uncovered bake
Troubleshooting
Custard curdles or looks grainy
Make sure the egg‑milk mixture is added to hot pasta off the heat and stirred gently; if it starts to thicken, add a splash of reserved pasta water and continue mixing.
Top crust is not golden or is soggy
Remove the foil for the full 20‑minute uncovered bake; if still soggy, increase uncovered baking time by 5‑10 minutes and broil for 1‑2 minutes.
Pasta is overcooked and mushy
Cook the pasta just short of al dente (8 minutes) as it will continue cooking in the oven.
Storage
Refrigerator: Cool in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Freezer: Freeze uncovered portions for up to 2 months; reheat at 175°C until hot
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the shredded cheese and cubed cheese a day ahead and store in the fridge
- Whisk the egg, evaporated milk, and whole milk together and keep refrigerated; give a quick stir before using
- Assemble the casserole up to the covered bake step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours; bake directly from the fridge adding 5 extra minutes
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of baked macaroni and cheese in American cuisine?
Baked macaroni and cheese became popular in the United States during the early 20th century as an affordable, comforting dish for families, especially during the Great Depression and wartime rationing. It evolved from a simple stovetop recipe into a casserole that incorporates richer ingredients like cheese blends and custard for extra creaminess, making it a staple at potlucks and family gatherings.
What are the traditional regional variations of baked macaroni and cheese in the United States?
In the South, baked mac and cheese often includes a crunchy breadcrumb topping and sharp cheddar. In the Northeast, smoked cheeses such as smoked Gouda or cheddar are common, while the Midwest may add a layer of sliced tomatoes or a blend of mozzarella for stretchiness. The recipe from OneStopChop reflects a Midwest‑inspired blend of smoked Gouda, cheddar, and Monterey Jack with a custard base for extra richness.
How is baked macaroni and cheese traditionally served in American households?
It is typically served as a main or side dish alongside fried chicken, barbecue, or a green salad. Many families portion it into individual squares for lunchboxes, while others serve it hot from the baking dish at dinner tables, often accompanied by ketchup or hot sauce for a flavor boost.
On what occasions or celebrations is baked macaroni and cheese commonly featured in American culture?
Baked mac and cheese is a go‑to dish for family gatherings, holiday meals (especially Thanksgiving leftovers), potlucks, and casual weekend dinners. Its comforting nature also makes it popular at school events and community fundraisers.
How does baked macaroni and cheese fit into the broader American comfort‑food tradition?
It embodies the American comfort‑food ethos of simplicity, heartiness, and indulgence. The dish combines pantry staples—pasta, cheese, and milk—into a rich, satisfying casserole that evokes nostalgia and warmth, similar to dishes like chicken pot pie or meatloaf.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for baked macaroni and cheese versus acceptable substitutes?
Traditional recipes rely on elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar, and a milk‑based sauce. Modern variations, like the OneStopChop recipe, add smoked Gouda, Monterey Jack, and an egg‑evaporated milk custard for depth. Acceptable substitutes include any short pasta shape, alternative cheeses (e.g., Gruyère, mozzarella), and half‑and‑half or heavy cream in place of evaporated milk.
What other American dishes pair well with baked macaroni and cheese?
It pairs beautifully with Southern fried chicken, BBQ ribs, collard greens, roasted vegetables, and a crisp garden salad. For a complete comfort‑food meal, serve it alongside cornbread or garlic bread.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making baked macaroni and cheese from the OneStopChop recipe?
Common errors include overcooking the pasta, which leads to a mushy texture; adding the egg‑milk custard directly to boiling pasta, which can cause curdling; and skipping the uncovered bake, resulting in a soggy top. Follow the timing cues and stir the custard gently to ensure a smooth sauce.
How do I know when the baked macaroni and cheese is done cooking?
The casserole is done when the top is golden‑brown and a firm crust has formed, and the interior is bubbling around the edges. An internal temperature of 71°C (160°F) confirms the custard is fully set and safe to eat.
What does the YouTube channel OneStopChop specialize in?
The YouTube channel OneStopChop specializes in straightforward, family‑friendly recipes that focus on comfort foods, quick weeknight meals, and practical cooking hacks. The channel emphasizes clear step‑by‑step instructions and budget‑conscious ingredient choices.
How does the YouTube channel OneStopChop's approach to American comfort cooking differ from other cooking channels?
OneStopChop prioritizes minimal equipment, pantry‑staple ingredients, and time‑saving techniques, whereas many other channels may use specialty tools or exotic ingredients. The channel’s videos often include tips for scaling recipes and making dishes ahead, catering to busy home cooks.
Last updated: August 29, 2026
