Baked Mac and Cheese with Ritz Cracker Topping

Baked Mac and Cheese with Ritz Cracker Topping

There’s a certain magic in the air when you pull a bubbling, golden dish of Baked Mac and Cheese from the oven. The aroma wafts through the house, wrapping you in warmth and nostalgia, evoking fond memories of family dinners and cozy nights in. This decadent comfort food is a celebration of gooey cheese, perfectly cooked pasta, and a crunchy, buttery Ritz cracker topping that adds an irresistible texture and flavor. It’s fast, kid-friendly, and guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face—what more could you ask for in a weeknight dinner?

What’s Your Favorite Childhood Comfort Food?

Can you remember the first time you tasted creamy mac and cheese? Perhaps it was at a family gathering or a casual night at home when the warmth of a baked casserole felt like a hug from your parents. Baked Mac and Cheese with Ritz Cracker Topping is more than a meal; it’s an experience—one that can instantly transport you to simpler times. What if I told you that you could recreate that feeling in less than an hour? Is there anything better than digging into a cheesy bowl of nostalgia?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Baked Mac and Cheese recipe is a dream come true for several reasons:

• Easy to Prepare: Even novice cooks can whip it up in no time. Minimal prep and fuss ensure you’ll have all the time needed for reminiscing or enjoying with friends and family.

• Crowd-Pleaser: With its cheesy goodness and crispy topping, it’s a hit at potlucks, game days, and family dinners.

• Minimal Ingredients: Constructed from a short list of pantry staples that you likely already have, this recipe is convenient and cost-effective.

• Nostalgia in Every Bite: It’s creamy, savory, and utterly comforting, evoking the warm memories we cherish.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces elbow pasta: The perfect vehicle for all that cheesy goodness.
• 24 ounces evaporated milk: Rich and creamy, it enhances the overall texture while making the sauce luxuriously thick.
• 8 ounces Cheddar cheese, shredded: The classic choice, it brings that bold flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• 8 ounces Monterey Jack or Fontina cheese, shredded: Adds a creamy richness and a mild, buttery flavor.
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded: The finishing touch that gives the dish a rich, nutty profile.
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard: A pungent kick to deepen the flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: A whisper of warmth that elevates the dish.
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika: For a hint of smokiness and color.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Just the right amount of heat.
• 32 Ritz butter crackers: Key to the crunchy topping that you just can’t resist.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For binding the crushed crackers and adding a rich finish.

Timing

This dish offers the best of both worlds: fast indulgence for busy weeknights and an option for luxurious weekend lounging. In just around 30 minutes (plus baking time), you can have a fully satisfying meal that is sure to warm the hearts and stomachs of everyone at your table. It’s the comfort food you can whip up in a hurry, yet it feels like a cozy, slow-cooked meal.

Step-by-Step

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F. The anticipation starts now as you prepare for the cheesy goodness.

2. In a large pot, add the elbow pasta to salted boiling water. Cook according to package directions, but drain 1 minute before it’s al dente; you want it firm enough to hold its shape.

3. In the same pot (lessen the dishes!), add the creamy evaporated milk and heat over medium-low. Gradually whisk in the shredded cheeses until they melt into a gooey, luscious sauce.

4. Stir in the ground mustard, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper—your kitchen will start to feel inviting and warm. Mix in the drained pasta until it’s thoroughly coated, then transfer the mixture to a 9×13 baking dish.

5. In a small bowl, crush the Ritz crackers and combine them with melted butter—this mixture not only creates the ultimate crunch but also adds a beautiful golden color.

6. Sprinkle this delicious topping over the mac and cheese and bake for 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Trust me; you’ll want to dive right in!

Nutritional Information

While indulging in this cheesy delight, you may be curious about the calories. Each serving of this Baked Mac and Cheese typically contains around 400-500 calories. Though it’s a treat, it’s not exactly a daily staple!

Healthier Alternatives

If you’re looking to lighten it up, consider these swaps:

• Low-Fat Cheeses: Opt for low-fat versions of Cheddar and Monterey Jack for reduced calories without sacrificing flavor.
• Cauliflower Pasta: Try a cauliflower-based pasta for a veggie twist.
• Plant-Based Milk: Swap out evaporated milk with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.

Serving Suggestions

Baked Mac and Cheese shines on its own, yet it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for balance. Feel free to kick it up a notch with a drizzle of hot sauce or serve it alongside some sweet desserts like a slice of pie or ice cream for a delightful dinner spread.

Common Mistakes

If Baked Mac and Cheese is a new venture, here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Overbaking: Keep an eye on it while it’s in the oven; overbaking can lead to a dry, crumbly texture that no one wants.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: It’s essential to use quality cheese to achieve that creamy, melty goodness.
• Messes in the Kitchen: Assemble everything in the same pot to simplify cleanup and minimize chaotic cooking.

Storing Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to store them:

• Freezing Portions: You can freeze individual portions for future quick meals. Just ensure they’re in airtight containers.
• Reheating Instructions: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or you can use the microwave, but keep an eye on it to avoid drying out.

Tempting Readers to Bake It ASAP

Now that you have all the tools and knowledge at your fingertips, why not treat yourself and your loved ones to a delightful experience by baking this Baked Mac and Cheese with Ritz Cracker Topping? This is the cozy, soul-warming dish that promises to become a staple in your home. Whether it’s for a weeknight meal or a weekend feast, this recipe is your ticket to cheesy bliss.

FAQs

1. Can I use gluten-free pasta?
   Yes, you can easily substitute gluten-free elbow pasta in this recipe for a satisfying option.

2. How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Prepare it up to the baking stage, cover it well, and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat!

3. Can I add protein?
   Absolutely! Toss in cooked chicken, bacon, or even veggies for added nutrition.

4. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
   The oven is best for even reheating, but the microwave works in a pinch—just cover it to keep it moist.

5. Which cheeses work best together?
   Feel free to mix and match: Gouda, Gruyere, and even cream cheese can elevate the flavor profile for a gourmet twist!

With every bite of this dreamy Baked Mac and Cheese, you’re sure to feel—at least a little—like a kid again. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and indulge in this incredible, soul-soothing dish. You won’t regret it!

Baked Mac and Cheese with Ritz Cracker Topping

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• Author: bright
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A nostalgic and decadent Baked Mac and Cheese featuring gooey cheese, perfectly cooked pasta, and a crunchy, buttery Ritz cracker topping.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 ounces elbow pasta
• 24 ounces evaporated milk
• 8 ounces Cheddar cheese, shredded
• 8 ounces Monterey Jack or Fontina cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 32 Ritz butter crackers
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot, add the elbow pasta to salted boiling water. Cook according to package directions, but drain 1 minute before it’s al dente.
3. In the same pot, add the evaporated milk and heat over medium-low. Gradually whisk in the shredded cheeses until melted into a gooey sauce.
4. Stir in the ground mustard, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Mix in the drained pasta until thoroughly coated, then transfer to a 9×13 baking dish.
5. In a small bowl, crush the Ritz crackers and combine with melted butter. Sprinkle this topping over the mac and cheese.
6. Bake for 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Notes

For a lighter version, opt for low-fat cheeses or plant-based milk. Serve with a salad for balance.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg