What You’ll Love About This Recipe
There’s something special about homemade mac and cheese that makes it a favorite for everyone. It’s creamy, comforting, and totally customizable to your taste.
- Simple ingredients: You’ll only need pantry staples like pasta, cheese, and milk—no fancy stuff required.
- Endless options: Add bacon, veggies, or spices to make it your own masterpiece.
- Family favorite: Kids and adults alike will go back for seconds, guaranteed!
Recipe
Homemade mac and cheese is a classic comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying. This recipe is simple to make and uses basic ingredients to create a dish that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well-coated.
- Serve immediately.
Notes:
- For a richer flavor, use a mix of cheeses like sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack.
- Add cooked bacon, breadcrumbs, or veggies for extra texture and taste.
Equipment:
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Colander
Time:
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4 servings
Nutrition
This homemade mac and cheese recipe is rich and comforting, but it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional content. Below is the breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Fat | 28g |
| Saturated Fat | 16g |
| Cholesterol | 85mg |
| Sodium | 680mg |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Protein | 22g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade mac and cheese with a fresh side salad to add a bit of crunch and balance, and I can’t resist serving it with warm garlic bread for that extra savory kick. A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette works wonders, while buttery, golden garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser. These sides make the meal feel complete without stealing the spotlight from the star of the table.
Side Salad Pairings
When I’m serving up creamy homemade mac and cheese, I always think a fresh side salad adds just the right balance, cutting through the richness and making the whole meal feel complete. My go-to is a simple garden salad with crisp lettuce, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette. Sometimes, I’ll mix in baby spinach or arugula for extra flavor. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll toss in some shredded carrots, radishes, or avocado slices. A Caesar salad with crunchy croutons also pairs beautifully. Whatever I choose, it’s all about adding that revitalizing crunch to complement the gooey, cheesy goodness.
Garlic Bread Options
Nothing beats a warm, buttery slice of garlic bread alongside a bowl of homemade mac and cheese—it’s like they were made for each other. I love making classic garlic bread by toasting a baguette, slathering it with garlic butter, and broiling it until golden. For a twist, I’ll sprinkle on some Parmesan or even add a pinch of parsley for extra flavor. Sometimes, I’ll go for cheesy garlic bread by melting mozzarella on top—it’s over-the-top delicious. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll use ciabatta or sourdough for a heartier bite. It’s the perfect side to soak up every last bit of creamy cheese sauce.
