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Simple Mac and Cheese Recipe

Simple Mac and Cheese Recipe

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4.8 from 52 reviews

This simple mac and cheese recipe skips the fuss of making a white sauce, relying on condensed cream of mushroom soup for a creamy, flavorful base. Tossed with cooked macaroni and plenty of cheddar cheese, it’s baked to bubbling perfection. Quick to prep, it’s the ultimate comfort food for busy nights.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

  • 1 1/2 cups macaroni
  • Water, for boiling
  • Salt, for boiling

For the Sauce

  • 1 (10.5 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup (such as Campbell’s)
  • 1 1/4 cups milk (use soup can to measure)
  • 1/2 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

For Assembly

  • Nonstick spray or butter, for greasing casserole dish

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Mix the Sauce: In a large bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup and shredded Cheddar cheese. Fill the empty soup can with milk (about 1 1/4 cups), then add the milk to the bowl. Stir everything together until smooth and well combined.
  3. Combine and Assemble: Add the drained, cooked macaroni to the sauce mixture. Stir until the pasta is well coated and everything is evenly mixed.
  4. Bake: Lightly grease a casserole dish with nonstick spray or butter. Transfer the macaroni mixture to the dish, spreading it into an even layer. Cover the dish with a lid or foil. Bake in a preheated 325°F (165°C) oven for about 30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
  5. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, uncover carefully, and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your easy homemade mac and cheese!

Notes

  • You can substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or cheddar soup if you prefer.
  • Try adding cooked vegetables or diced ham to make it a complete meal.
  • For a crispier top, remove the cover for the last 5 minutes of baking and add a sprinkle of extra cheese or breadcrumbs.
  • This recipe is easily doubled to feed a larger crowd.