How to Reheat Mac and Cheese So It Won't Get Dry and Overcooked (2024)

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When you think of the ultimate comfort meal, what comes to mind? Whether you’re five or 45 years old, we can all agree that it’s likely macaroni and cheese. The delicate noodles doused in silky, cheesy goodness is enough to warm your heart and belly, no matter the occasion. And while everyone has a different way of making mac and cheese, we’re all confronted with the same issue at some point: reheating it the next day can royally ruin the taste and texture.

Dishes that have a lot of dairy aren’t usually ideal as leftovers because the proteins and fats separate when reheated. In the case of mac and cheese, this often makes the dish mushy and tasteless. On the other hand, your mac and cheese could end up tasting dry and oily if it's reheated the wrong way. Luckily, there are a few tricks to help you actually enjoy mac and cheese the next day, and the good news is, you can successfully reheat it in several ways. To learn how to reheat mac and cheese so it’s still gooey and delicious, keep reading.

How to Reheat Mac and Cheese in the Oven

If you have the time, reheating mac and cheese in the oven is one of the better options because it will retain the perfect texture. The inside will become warm and gooey, and the top will get nice and crispy, as if it were baked for the first time. Here’s how to reheat mac and cheese in the oven:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. Take a portion of the mac and cheese (or however much you need) and place it in an oven-safe baking dish.
3. Pour about a tablespoon of milk per cup of mac and cheese into the dish and mix well.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until it’s heated through.
5. If you want the top to get golden and crispy, remove the aluminum foil and finish cooking the mac and cheese under the broiler for 5 minutes.
   

How to Reheat Mac and Cheese in the Microwave

The microwave is a lifesaver, especially when you need lunch or dinner in a pinch. But since everyone’s microwave is different, reheating mac and cheese might take a little trial and error. Here’s what to do for the best results:

1. Put a portion of the mac and cheese on a microwave-safe dish or plate.
2. Add a tablespoon of milk per cup of mac and cheese and mix well.
3. Reheat the mac and cheese for 15 seconds at a time, making sure to stir it well.
4. Once the mac and cheese is bubbling and heated through, remove the dish from the microwave. Add a little butter and mix again.

How to Reheat Mac and Cheese on the Stove

Reheating mac and cheese on the stove is quick, efficient, and will guarantee a delicious leftover meal. In fact, it’s even easier and tastier than making a boxed mac and cheese. Here’s how you do it:

1. Add the mac and cheese and one tablespoon of milk (per cup of mac and cheese) to a saucepan or pot.
2. Heat the mac and cheese over medium heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
3. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until heated through. Turn off the stove and add a little butter and extra cheese, and mix once more.