Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese (Budget-Friendly)

Recipe by Smokin' & Grillin with AB

A rich, creamy baked mac and cheese made with sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack, seasoned with a touch of Creole seasoning. Perfect for Thanksgiving or any comfort‑food craving without breaking the bank.

MediumAmerican (Southern Comfort)Serves 8

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
35m
Prep
43m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 28m
Total

Cost Breakdown

Total cost:$11.90
Per serving:$1.49

Critical Success Points

  • Cooking the pasta al dente – overcooked pasta becomes mushy after baking.
  • Making a smooth roux without lumps.
  • Gradually whisking in milk to avoid a grainy sauce.
  • Ensuring the cheese fully melts using residual heat before baking.
  • Baking until the top is golden‑brown but not burnt.

Safety Warnings

  • Boiling water and hot pasta can cause severe burns – handle with care.
  • The cheese sauce is hot; whisk away from the edge of the stove to avoid splatter.
  • Use oven mitts when handling the hot casserole dish.

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Ivorian Garba (cassava semolina, fried fish, aloco and condiments)

Ivorian Garba (cassava semolina, fried fish, aloco and condiments)

Garba is an iconic dish from Côte d'Ivoire consisting of attieke (cassava semolina), fried fish, aloco (fried plantains) and spicy raw vegetables. This homemade version reproduces the flavors of the Parisian Garba restaurant, with detailed steps for each component.

1 hr 50 min
4
$24.45
12
IvorianMedium
Lamrija of lamb (Tunisian stew with silky sauce)

Lamrija of lamb (Tunisian stew with silky sauce)

Lamrija of lamb is a traditional Tunisian dish, rich and creamy thanks to a spiced oil and flour paste that gives the sauce a silky texture. The stew simmers for a long time, releasing the aromas of coriander, caraway, black pepper and bay leaf, while the lamb becomes melt-in-the-mouth tender. Served hot, it pairs perfectly with homemade bread or couscous.

1 hr 57 min
4
$9.00
2
TunisianMedium
Mousse à la fraise en verrines

Mousse à la fraise en verrines

Une mousse légère à la fraise présentée en verrines, avec une compotée de fraises au fond et décorée de fraises fraîches. Idéale pour un dessert de printemps, facile à préparer et plus léger qu’un gâteau traditionnel.

1 hr 30 min
5
$11.90
1
FrançaiseMediumFrench
Bacon Lettuce Tomato Toast Sandwich with Homemade Mayo

Bacon Lettuce Tomato Toast Sandwich with Homemade Mayo

A hearty BLT‑style sandwich made with crispy streaky bacon, fresh tomato‑shallot salad, crisp lettuce and thick, buttery homemade mayonnaise, all assembled on potato bread that’s fried in the rendered bacon fat for extra flavor.

47 min
1
$5.62
3
BritishMedium
High-Protein Pepperoni Pizza Buns

High-Protein Pepperoni Pizza Buns

These high‑protein pepperoni pizza buns pack over 30 g of protein per bun. Made with a simple Greek‑yogurt dough, low‑fat cheese and turkey or beef pepperoni, they’re perfect for a weight‑loss friendly snack you can take to work or school.

42 min
8
$4.78
7
AmericanEasy
Butter Shortbread Cookies

Butter Shortbread Cookies

Crisp, buttery shortbread cookies made with just five ingredients. The dough is lightly beaten, piped, chilled, and baked to a perfect golden snap—ideal for a quick coffee‑time treat.

1 hr 2 min
6
$3.06
2
AmericanEasy