Creamy Cheddar Pasta Bake with Crunchy Topping

🔥 KITCHEN FINDS

3 Clever Kitchen Gadgets Worth Checking Out

These handy little gadgets make cooking easier — and they're actually pretty cool.

This Kitchen Gadget Sprays AND Pours Oil

One bottle for spraying, pouring and keeping cooking oil close at hand.

Check It Out on Amazon →

This Weird Little Tool Slices Watermelon for You

Slice, cube and grab watermelon with one ridiculously simple little gadget.

Check It Out on Amazon →

Mix & Pour Pancake Batter Without the Mess

Mix the batter right in the bottle, then squeeze it straight onto the griddle.

Check It Out on Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Creamy Cheddar Pasta Bake is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights. This dish combines al dente pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb layer that adds texture and flavor. It’s an easy, satisfying meal that the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Cheddar Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that is both comforting and simple to prepare. Here are a few reasons to make it:

• Quick and Easy: Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe comes together in under an hour.
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy goodness is a hit with children and adults alike.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare it in advance and bake it when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups milk
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish

How to Make Creamy Cheddar Pasta Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens.
5. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Stir in the sour cream and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well combined.
7. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the pasta mixture.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
10. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Tips for the Best Results

• For a creamier sauce, feel free to add more sour cream or cheese.
• Try adding cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.
• If you prefer a spicy kick, mix in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.

Easy Variations

• Swap out the elbow macaroni for penne or shells for a different pasta experience.
• Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for varied flavors.
• For a meatier version, add cooked chicken, sausage, or bacon to the pasta mixture.

What to Serve With It

• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta bake.
• Serve with garlic bread for a classic pairing.
• Sautéed vegetables or steamed broccoli add a healthy touch to the meal.

Storage and Reheating

📚 RECIPE LOVER FINDS

Love Trying New Recipes? Check These Out

Save your favorites, discover something different, or make meal planning a whole lot easier.

❤️ Love This Recipe? Save Your Favorites

Keep all those recipes you actually want to make again together in your own recipe book.

See It on Amazon →

🔥 Yep, Snoop Dogg Has a Cookbook

From Crook to Cook brings Snoop's spin to comfort food, classics and seriously fun recipes.

Check It Out on Amazon →

🥗 100+ Meals You Can Make Ahead

Simple make-ahead recipes and quick-assembly meals for making the week way easier.

See It on Amazon →

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions until hot.

Recipe Card