What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Homemade Macaroni and Cheese recipe is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and impossible to resist. You’ll love it because it’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor that beats any boxed version.
- It uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
- The cheese sauce is smooth and velvety, coating every noodle perfectly.
- It’s customizable—add breadcrumbs, bacon, or veggies for your own twist!
Recipe
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that is loved by many. This homemade version is creamy, cheesy, and easy to make from scratch. Perfect for a quick lunch or a hearty side dish, this recipe will become a family favorite.
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
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1 pinch paprika
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and add the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni and pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- In a small bowl, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and mix with the bread crumbs. Sprinkle over the macaroni.
- Sprinkle paprika on top for added flavor.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Notes:
- For a creamier texture, add an extra 1/2 cup of milk.
- Substitute bread crumbs with crushed crackers for a different topping.
Equipment:
Breaching dish, saucepan, whisk, mixing bowl
Time:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
4-6 servings
Nutrition
Homemade macaroni and cheese is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or a side. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional profile.
| Nutrition | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 34 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Cholesterol | 55 mg |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade mac and cheese with simple side dishes, like a crisp green salad or roasted veggies; they add freshness and balance to the meal. For drinks, I think a cold glass of lemonade or iced tea works perfectly to cut through the richness. You can also try a light white wine or sparkling water if you’re feeling fancy!
Side Dishes
When you’re serving up a creamy, cheesy bowl of homemade mac and cheese, you’ll want sides that complement its richness without stealing the spotlight. A crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette cuts through the heaviness, while roasted Brussels sprouts add a caramelized crunch. Garlicky sautéed spinach keeps things light, and buttery cornbread balances the dish’s creaminess. For something heartier, try smoky baked beans or juicy grilled chicken. Pickles or a relish tray bring a bright, acidic contrast. Each side should enhance the mac and cheese, not compete with it. Keep portions modest—this star dish deserves center stage!
Beverage Pairings
After you’ve picked the perfect side dishes, let’s think about what to sip alongside that cozy bowl of mac and cheese. I love a crisp white wine, like a Sauvignon Blanc, to balance the richness, but if you’re not into wine, a cold beer works wonders. A light lager or pale ale cuts through the creaminess just right. For non-alcoholic options, try sparkling water with a twist of lemon or iced tea—it’s invigorating and keeps things simple. Personally, I’m a fan of apple cider in the fall; its sweetness pairs beautifully with the cheesy goodness. Whatever you choose, make it feel like a treat!
