What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade mac n cheese recipe is creamy, comforting, and oh-so-easy to make—perfect for cozy nights or feeding a hungry crowd.
- Rich and Cheesy: Loaded with gooey cheddar and a hint of Parmesan for the ultimate cheesy flavor.
- Creamy Texture: A smooth, velvety sauce coats every noodle, making each bite irresistible.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples, so you can whip it up without a last-minute grocery run.
Recipe
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of creamy, homemade mac n cheese. This classic recipe is simple to make and delivers rich, cheesy flavor in every bite. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it’s a timeless favorite that never disappoints.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, mixing well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes:
For extra creaminess, use a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
Equipment:
Large pot, medium saucepan, whisk, baking dish
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 4-6
Nutrition
Nutritional information may vary based on ingredients and serving size. Here are the approximate values per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Saturated Fat | 16 g |
| Cholesterol | 75 mg |
| Sodium | 720 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade mac n cheese with a fresh side salad to balance out the richness, and my go-to is a simple mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette. Adding a protein like grilled chicken or crispy bacon takes it to the next level, turning a comforting dish into a full meal. What sides or proteins do you usually enjoy with yours?
Side Salad Pairings
Since mac and cheese is rich and creamy, a fresh side salad helps balance the meal with something light and crisp. I love pairing it with a simple garden salad—just greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette. The crunch cuts through the cheesiness perfectly. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll toss in some shredded carrots or radishes for extra color and texture. A Caesar salad works too, but I skip the heavy dressing and go for lemon juice instead. Trust me, the contrast makes every bite of mac and cheese even more satisfying. It’s all about that balance!
Protein Additions
When I’m whipping up a batch of homemade mac and cheese, I always think about adding a protein to make it a complete meal, especially if I’m serving it as the main dish. My go-to is crispy bacon bits—they add a smoky crunch that’s irresistible. Grilled chicken works wonders too, especially if it’s seasoned with garlic and herbs. For a lighter option, I’ll toss in some sautéed shrimp or flaked salmon. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll add spicy Italian sausage or pulled pork for a hearty twist. Trust me, these protein boosts take mac and cheese from a side dish to a star!
