Baked Mac and Cheese

Baked Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food casserole featuring elbow macaroni pasta coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce and baked until golden and bubbly. Its core ingredients typically include pasta, cheese (like cheddar), milk or cream, butter, and flour for a roux, often topped with breadcrumbs or extra cheese for texture. While its roots trace back to European pasta and cheese dishes, it became a beloved staple in American cuisine.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is generally high in carbohydrates and fat, with a moderate amount of protein from the cheese and pasta. A standard serving can range from 400 to 600 calories and provides calcium, phosphorus, and B vitamins.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	520 kcal
Protein	22 g
Carbs	45 g
Fat	28 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	5 g
Sodium	880 mg
Calcium	350 mg
Phosphorus	300 mg
Vitamin A	250 µg
Vitamin B12	1.5 µg
Selenium	25 µg
Zinc	3 mg
Potassium	200 mg
Folate	40 µg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Baked Mac and Cheese holds a special place in American culture as a quintessential comfort food, often associated with family gatherings and holidays. Nutritionally, it's a dense source of energy, and its variations—from adding lobster to using different cheese blends—showcase its incredible versatility.