What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade mac and cheese recipe is creamy, comforting, and super easy to make, even for beginners. You’ll love how it brings everyone to the table with its cheesy goodness!
- *Creamy perfection*: The smooth, velvety cheese sauce coats every noodle for maximum flavor.
- *Family favorite*: It’s a crowd-pleaser that kids and adults alike will devour.
- *Simple ingredients*: Made with pantry staples, it’s quick to whip up anytime.
Recipe
Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food loved by many. This homemade version is creamy, cheesy, and easy to make with simple ingredients. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 1/2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 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 make a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Reduce heat to low and add cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni, mixing well.
- Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, use a mix of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Colander
Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cuisine
American
Serving
4-6 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 | 450 kcal |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Cholesterol | 65mg |
| Sodium | 680mg |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Protein | 20g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade mac and cheese with garlic bread because the crispy, buttery slices balance the creamy pasta perfectly. Roasted veggies like broccoli or brussels sprouts add a fresh, savory crunch that complements the richness of the dish. These sides make the meal feel complete without overpowering the star of the show.
Garlic Bread Pairing
If you’re looking to take your homemade mac and cheese to the next level, you can’t go wrong with a side of garlic bread. It’s the perfect partner—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and loaded with buttery garlic flavor. I love making garlic bread from scratch by spreading a mix of butter, minced garlic, and parsley on a baguette, then toasting it until golden. But even store-bought garlic bread works in a pinch. The best part is using it to scoop up every last bit of cheesy goodness. Trust me, it’s a combo you’ll crave again and again.
Roasted Veggie Sides
While mac and cheese is already a star on its own, roasted veggies can turn it into a well-rounded meal that’s both comforting and nutritious. I love tossing broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roasting them until crispy. The caramelized edges add a smoky depth that pairs perfectly with creamy mac. For extra flavor, try sprinkling garlic powder or Parmesan before roasting. Even picky eaters might surprise themselves by enjoying veggies this way. It’s an easy upgrade that balances richness with freshness, making every bite more satisfying.
