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Velveeta Baked Mac and Cheese Casserole Recipe

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4.3 from 29 reviews

This Velveeta Baked Mac and Cheese Casserole is a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic made with a rich Velveeta cheese sauce, combined with elbow macaroni and topped with sharp cheddar for a golden, bubbly finish. Perfectly baked for a crispy cheesy crust and creamy interior, this recipe is a family favorite for any occasion.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

For the Casserole

  • Butter or Cooking Spray to grease a 9 x 13 inch casserole dish
  • 1 pound large macaroni pasta

For the Cheese Sauce

  • 16 ounce package processed cheese such as Velveeta, cut into one inch cubes
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar (white or yellow cheddar works)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1.5 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • ½ teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (or to taste, or a couple dashes of hot sauce as alternative)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400ºF. Grease a 9 x 13 inch casserole dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking during baking.
  2. Cook Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain the pasta well in a colander to remove all water and set aside.
  3. Make the Roux: In a medium pan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly to avoid scorching. Continue stirring and cooking the roux for about 5 minutes until it turns a golden color and gives off a nutty aroma.
  4. Add Milk and Spices: Gradually whisk in the 1.5 cups of milk until the mixture is smooth and combined. Stir in dry mustard powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper to enhance flavor in the sauce.
  5. Melt Velveeta Cheese: Add the cubed Velveeta to the sauce mixture and stir continuously until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
  6. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Gently fold the cooked macaroni noodles into the cheese sauce ensuring every piece is coated evenly.
  7. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the cheesy macaroni mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top.
  8. Bake: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the dish is bubbling hot.
  9. Broil for Golden Top: Remove the foil and turn the oven to broil. Broil the casserole until the top cheese layer reaches your desired golden brown and crispy texture. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
  10. Serve: Remove from oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • You can serve this as stove top mac and cheese by stirring the shredded cheddar cheese directly into the macaroni and skipping the baking step.
  • Cook pasta until just al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
  • Stir the cheese sauce frequently while melting to avoid scorching and ensure a smooth consistency.
  • For extra richness, add a spoonful of sour cream or a dash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://flavorhug.com/velveeta-baked-mac-and-cheese-casserole-recipe/