Golden Baked Macaroni & Cheese Squares are a comforting, crowd-pleasing twist on the classic mac and cheese. Instead of serving it as a creamy casserole, this version is baked until firm and cut into neat squares with a crispy, golden top and a rich, cheesy interior. Each bite delivers the nostalgic flavor of traditional macaroni and cheese, elevated by a caramelized crust and a structured form that makes it perfect for serving at gatherings, lunchboxes, or potlucks.
This dish starts with tender elbow macaroni coated in a velvety cheese sauce made from a blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and creamy milk. The mixture is poured into a baking dish, topped with extra cheese, and baked until the top is bubbling and golden. Once cooled slightly, it’s sliced into squares that hold their shape beautifully, offering a satisfying bite with both creamy and crispy textures.
Whether served as a main dish, side, or snack, these squares are versatile and deeply satisfying. They can be customized with add-ins like herbs, spices, or proteins, and they reheat well for leftovers. This recipe is ideal for anyone who loves comfort food with a touch of elegance and practicality.
INGREDIENTS: Yields one 9×13-inch pan (12–15 squares)
For the Macaroni Base:
3 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk (warm)
1 cup heavy cream (optional for richness)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon paprika (optional for color)
Optional: ¼ teaspoon mustard powder or 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
For the Topping:
1 cup shredded cheddar or a cheese blend
2 tablespoons grated parmesan (optional for crispiness)
Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped parsley for garnish
INSTRUCTION:
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add macaroni and cook until al dente (about 7–8 minutes).
Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
Slowly add warm milk and cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
Cook until the mixture thickens (about 5–7 minutes).
Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and mustard.
Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella. Stir until melted and smooth.
Step 3: Combine and Assemble
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well.
Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle topping cheese and parmesan over the surface.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
For extra crispiness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
Remove from oven and let cool for 10–15 minutes to set.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Cut into squares using a sharp knife.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Serve warm or at room temperature.
SERVINGS: This recipe yields 12–15 squares, serving 6–8 people as a main dish or 10–12 as a side. Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or meal prep. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheated in the oven or air fryer.
NOTE:
Cheese Choice: Sharp cheddar gives bold flavor; mozzarella adds stretch. Use gruyère or fontina for a gourmet twist.
Milk & Cream: Whole milk is ideal. Heavy cream adds richness but can be omitted for a lighter version.
Texture Tips: Let the dish cool slightly before slicing to ensure clean edges.
Flavor Boosters: Add sautéed onions, garlic, or herbs to the cheese sauce.
Protein Additions: Mix in cooked bacon, ham, or shredded chicken for a heartier dish.
Vegetarian Add-ins: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted peppers.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare and refrigerate before baking. Bake when ready to serve.
Freezing: Freeze baked squares individually. Reheat in oven at 375°F for 10–12 minutes.
Presentation: Serve on a platter with dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or hot sauce.
Dietary Adaptations: Use gluten-free pasta and flour for gluten-free version. Substitute dairy-free cheese and milk for lactose-free option.
OTHER RECIPES (Inspired by These Mac & Cheese Squares):
1. Jalapeño Mac & Cheese Bites Add chopped jalapeños and pepper jack cheese. Bake in muffin tins for spicy, portable bites.
2. Broccoli Cheddar Mac Squares Mix in steamed broccoli and extra cheddar. Bake and slice for a veggie-packed version.
3. Buffalo Chicken Mac Squares Stir in shredded buffalo chicken and blue cheese crumbles. Serve with ranch drizzle.
4. Spinach & Feta Mac Bake Add sautéed spinach and crumbled feta. Top with parmesan and bake until golden.
5. BBQ Pulled Pork Mac Squares Layer pulled pork between mac layers. Bake and serve with BBQ sauce.
6. Cauliflower Mac & Cheese Squares Replace half the pasta with steamed cauliflower. Bake for a lighter, veggie-rich dish.
7. Four-Cheese Mac Slab Use cheddar, gouda, mozzarella, and parmesan. Rich and indulgent.
8. Tomato Basil Mac Squares Add sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil. Top with mozzarella and bake.
9. Mushroom & Thyme Mac Bake Sauté mushrooms with thyme and garlic. Mix into mac and bake for earthy flavor.
10. Sweet Potato Mac Squares Blend mashed sweet potato into cheese sauce. Adds sweetness and creaminess.
Golden Baked Macaroni & Cheese Squares are more than just a dish—they’re a celebration of comfort, creativity, and practicality. Each square offers a perfect balance of creamy interior and crispy top, making them ideal for sharing, storing, and savoring. Whether served at a festive table or enjoyed as a cozy weeknight meal, they bring warmth and joy in every bite.
