Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that never goes out of style. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal on a busy weeknight or craving a creamy, cheesy dish, this macaroni and cheese recipe is the perfect solution. Made with simple pantry ingredients and ready in just 25 minutes, this homemade version is far superior to store-bought boxed mac and cheese.
In this recipe, you’ll learn how to make a smooth, creamy cheese sauce using a roux, which is the key to achieving that perfect consistency. No fancy equipment is required—just a saucepan and a pot, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding different cheeses, proteins, or seasonings.
Let’s get started on making the best macaroni and cheese recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Macaroni And Cheese Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in 25 minutes with simple steps.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses common pantry staples.
- Rich & Creamy: A homemade roux creates the perfect texture.
- Customizable: Add proteins or extra toppings to suit your taste.
Ingredients for Macaroni And Cheese Recipe
To make this creamy stovetop mac and cheese, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (8-ounce) box elbow macaroni
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder for extra flavor
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika for a subtle smoky taste
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder to enhance the cheesiness
How to Make Macaroni And Cheese – Step-by-Step
1: Cook the Macaroni
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
- Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (about 8 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Drain the macaroni and set aside.
2: Make the Cheese Sauce (Roux-Based Sauce)
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, whisk in the flour, salt, and pepper, stirring continuously for about 2–3 minutes until slightly golden.
- Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
- Continue to cook for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
3: Melt the Cheese
- Reduce heat to low and slowly add shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce.
- Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
4: Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat every piece.
- Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Macaroni And Cheese Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
- 1 8-ounce box elbow macaroni
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Ground black pepper to taste
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, about 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour, salt, and pepper, whisking until smooth.
- Gradually add milk while stirring. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted.
- Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Stir until evenly coated.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Video
Notes
- For baked mac and cheese, transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (177°C) for 15 minutes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days and reheated with a splash of milk.
Nutrition
- Calories: 630
- Total Fat: 34g
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Calcium: 568mg
- Iron: 3g
Pro Tips for the Best Macaroni And Cheese Recipe
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercooked macaroni absorbs sauce better.
- Add a Splash of Milk When Reheating: This helps restore the creamy texture.
- Experiment with Cheese Blends: Try using mozzarella, gouda, or gruyère for a unique flavor twist.
Can You Make Baked Macaroni And Cheese?
Yes! To make a baked version:
- Follow the stovetop steps, then transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish.
- Top with breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or extra cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 15 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
How to Store and Reheat Macaroni And Cheese
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Add a splash of milk and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Macaroni And Cheese Recipe – Nutrition Information
- Calories: 630 per serving
- Total Fat: 34g (43% Daily Value)
- Protein: 27g (53% Daily Value)
- Carbohydrates: 55g (20% Daily Value)
- Calcium: 568mg (44% Daily Value)
- Iron: 3g (15% Daily Value)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like shells, penne, or rotini works well.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, substitute gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.
What’s the Best Cheese for Mac and Cheese?
Cheddar is classic, but you can mix it with Monterey Jack, Parmesan, or Swiss for extra flavor.
How Do I Prevent Grainy Cheese Sauce?
Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, and don’t overheat the sauce after adding the cheese.
This homemade macaroni and cheese recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a quick lunch, it delivers creamy, cheesy comfort in every bite. If you try this recipe, leave a comment below and let us know how it turned out. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family! Find the best Crispy Onion Bhaji Recipe.
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