simple homemade mac and cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
simple homemade mac and cheese recipe
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The Best simple homemade mac and cheese recipe

I’ve been making mac and cheese for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. My kids love it because it’s creamy and cheesy, and I love it because it’s easy to make and can be customized with different types of cheese and add-ins.

This recipe is a classic because it’s simple, yet rich and satisfying. The key to making great mac and cheese is to use a combination of cheddar and parmesan cheese, which gives it a deep flavor that’s hard to resist.

I also like to add some cooked bacon or ham to give it a smoky flavor. This recipe makes a big batch of mac and cheese, so it’s perfect for family gatherings or potlucks.

It also freezes well, so you can make it ahead of time and reheat it when you need it. Mac and cheese is one of those comfort foods that never goes out of style, and this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household too.

I’ve made this recipe so many times that I’ve lost count, but my family still looks forward to it every week. My kids are especially fond of the crispy top layer that forms on the macaroni when it’s baked in the oven – it’s like a golden brown crust on the outside and creamy goodness on the inside.

Simple Homemade Mac and Cheese

Simple Homemade Mac and Cheese

4.6 from 1885 votes

A creamy and comforting classic comfort food made with a homemade cheese sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz elbow macaroni
1 tsp salt

For the Cheese Sauce

2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3Drain and set aside.
4In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
5Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns light brown and has a nutty aroma.
6Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
7Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 3-5 minutes.
8Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the saucepan, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
9Stir in the salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
10Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
11Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated.
12If the sauce is too thick, add a little bit of milk to reach your desired consistency.
13Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish and serve immediately while hot.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Saucepan
Whisk
Colander

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add additional ingredients like cooked bacon, vegetables, or breadcrumbs for extra flavor and texture.

Watch Video Of How Simple Homemade Mac and Cheese Works

This simple homemade mac and cheese recipe is a staple in our household because it’s easy to make and always a hit with my family. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions like holidays or potlucks.

One thing I love about this recipe is that you can customize it with different types of cheese or add-ins like cooked bacon or ham. The best part is that it freezes well, so you can make it ahead of time and reheat it when you need it.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mac and Cheese

1. What type of pasta should I use for mac and cheese?

For mac and cheese, you want to use a pasta that holds onto the cheese sauce well, such as elbow macaroni or shells.

2. Can I use other types of cheese besides cheddar?

Yes, you can use other types of cheese besides cheddar. Some options include mozzarella, provolone, or gouda.

3. How do I prevent the macaroni from becoming mushy?

To prevent the macaroni from becoming mushy, cook it al dente before adding the cheese sauce.

4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe can be made gluten-free by substituting the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.

5. How long does this recipe take to make?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes to make from start to finish.

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