What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting, making it the perfect dish for any occasion.
- Rich and Flavorful: Packed with a blend of cheeses, every bite is bursting with gooey, melty goodness.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginners can whip this up in no time.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love this classic recipe, guaranteed to bring smiles to the table.
Recipe
Intro:
This classic homemade mac and cheese recipe is creamy, cheesy, and incredibly comforting. Made with simple ingredients, it’s perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups milk
- ¼ cup butter
- 2 ½ tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp paprika (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and paprika to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated.
- Serve immediately.
Notes:
- For extra creaminess, use whole milk.
- Add breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crispy texture (optional).
Equipment:
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Colander
- Measuring cups/spoons
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4 servings
Nutrition
Homemade mac and cheese is a comforting dish, but it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional content. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition per serving.
| Calories | Fat | Carbs | Protein | Sodium | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 450 | 22g | 45g | 16g | 600mg | 5g |
What To Serve With It
When I make my homemade mac and cheese, I love pairing it with a creamy side like garlic mashed potatoes or buttery corn for extra comfort. A crunchy salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds a nice contrast and keeps things fresh. It’s all about balancing the richness of the dish with something light or equally indulgent!
Creamy Side Dishes
While mac and cheese is already rich and comforting, pairing it with creamy side dishes can take the meal to the next level. I love serving it with garlic mashed potatoes—their smooth texture complements the cheesy pasta perfectly. A velvety cauliflower puree adds a subtle veggie twist without overpowering the dish. Creamed spinach is another favorite, blending earthy flavors with that luscious, buttery finish. For something lighter but still indulgent, try a chilled avocado salad with a dollop of sour cream. These sides keep the meal cohesive, making every bite feel like a cozy hug. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Crunchy Salad Pairings
If you’re looking to balance the richness of homemade mac and cheese with something fresh and crisp, adding a crunchy salad is a fantastic idea. I love tossing together a simple kale and apple salad with a tangy vinaigrette—the sweetness of the apples and the bite of the kale cut through the cheese perfectly. A classic Caesar with romaine and crunchy croutons also works wonders. For something lighter, try a cucumber and radish salad with a lemon dressing. The contrast in textures makes every bite exciting, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies without feeling guilty.
