This easy creamy macaroni casserole is the ultimate comfort food! Tender elbow macaroni coated in a rich, velvety sauce, topped with melted cheese and baked until hot and bubbly. Perfect for a quick family dinner or a delicious side dish.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
1. Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 1 lb (450 g) |
| Condensed cream of chicken soup | 1 can (10.5 oz / 300 g) |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Sour cream | ½ cup |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 2 cups |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup |
| Butter, melted | 2 tbsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Onion powder | ½ tsp |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Paprika | ½ tsp (optional) |
| Fresh parsley | For garnish |
2. Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 – Cook the macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, following the package instructions.
Drain well and set aside. Avoid overcooking because the pasta will continue cooking in the oven.
Step 2 – Prepare the creamy sauce
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Condensed cream of chicken soup
- Milk
- Sour cream
- Melted butter
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Black pepper
- Paprika
Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 3 – Add the cheese
Stir in 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup of mozzarella cheese. Mix until evenly combined.
Step 4 – Combine with macaroni
Add the cooked macaroni to the creamy mixture. Stir gently until every piece of pasta is coated with the sauce.
Step 5 – Prepare the baking dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Lightly grease a 9 × 13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Pour the macaroni mixture into the dish and spread evenly.
Step 6 – Add the cheese topping
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
For extra flavor, add a little paprika.
Step 7 – Bake
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
For a golden top, broil for another 1–2 minutes, watching carefully.
Step 8 – Rest and serve
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm.
3. Delicious variations
- Chicken macaroni: Add 2 cups of cooked shredded chicken.
- Broccoli macaroni: Add 1 cup of steamed broccoli florets.
- Bacon macaroni: Mix in ½ cup of crispy cooked bacon.
- Extra cheesy: Add another ½ cup of cheddar cheese.
- Spicy version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
4. Tips for the perfect creamy macaroni
- Cook pasta just until al dente.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
- Don’t skip the sour cream; it adds extra creaminess.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk.
- Let the casserole rest before serving so the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months for best quality.
- Reheating: Add a splash of milk and reheat in the microwave or oven until hot throughout.
Ready to enjoy!
Creamy, cheesy, comforting and incredibly easy — this baked macaroni casserole is sure to become a family favorite! ❤️