What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade mac n cheese recipe is a crowd-pleaser, offering creamy comfort in every bite. You’ll love how easy it is to make, using simple ingredients you probably already have. With its rich, cheesy flavor and perfectly tender pasta, it’s a dish that feels indulgent yet approachable. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can add your favorite toppings or mix-ins. Best of all, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
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 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
- 1/4 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 (if using) 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 to coat evenly.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream.
- 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 servings
Nutrition
This homemade mac n cheese recipe provides a satisfying and comforting dish. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional content per serving:
| Calories | Fat | Carbohydrates | Protein | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 450 | 18g | 50g | 20g | 2g | 5g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade mac n cheese with crispy bacon bits—it adds a salty crunch that takes it to the next level. Garlic parmesan broccoli is another favorite of mine, balancing the richness with a fresh, savory twist. What do you usually serve with yours?
Crispy Bacon Bits
Once you’ve got that creamy mac and cheese ready, tossing in some crispy bacon bits can take it to the next level. I love the salty, smoky crunch they add, making every bite even more satisfying. To make them, I cook bacon strips in a skillet until they’re golden and crisp, then let them cool before chopping them into bits. Sprinkling them over the mac and cheese just before serving keeps their texture perfect. It’s a simple trick, but it’s one of my favorites because it transforms a classic dish into something extra special. Trust me, it’s worth the extra step!
Garlic Parmesan Broccoli
While the mac and cheese is bubbling away, I like to whip up a quick side of garlic parmesan broccoli to balance out the meal. It’s super easy and adds a fresh, savory twist. I just toss broccoli florets with a bit of olive oil, minced garlic, and salt, then roast them in the oven until they’re tender and slightly crispy. Right after, I sprinkle on a generous handful of grated parmesan—it melts into the warm broccoli, making it irresistible. The sharp, cheesy flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy mac and cheese, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies.
