Description
Homemade Mac and Cheese is a dish made from elbow macaroni pasta coated in a creamy, cheesy sauce. The sauce is typically made from a base of butter, flour, and milk (also known as a roux), which is then enriched with cheddar cheese and seasoned for flavor. The dish can be served immediately after mixing the pasta and sauce together, but for an extra touch of indulgence, it can be baked with a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Optional: ¼ tsp dry mustard or paprika for extra depth
- Optional topping: ½ cup breadcrumbs + 1 tbsp melted butter
Instructions
- Cook pasta: Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make roux: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden.
- Add milk: Gradually whisk in milk. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
- Add cheese: Remove from heat. Stir in grated cheddar until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
- Combine: Mix cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until well coated.
- Bake (optional): Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with breadcrumb mixture and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
This creamy Homemade Mac and Cheese is pure comfort food! You can easily customize it by adding crispy bacon, sautéed veggies, or even a crunchy breadcrumb topping. It also pairs perfectly with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop + Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: High
Keywords: Classic Mac and Cheese, Creamy Mac and Cheese, Best Mac and Cheese Recipe, Homemade Cheese Pasta, Comfort Food Mac and Cheese