Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite

There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of homemade mac and cheese to satisfy your comfort food cravings. This timeless classic combines tender pasta with a rich, velvety cheese sauce that’s made from scratch—no powdered mixes or mystery ingredients here. Whether you’re serving it as a cozy weeknight dinner, a holiday side, or a kid-approved lunch, this dish delivers nostalgic flavor and unbeatable satisfaction. It’s simple enough for beginners but versatile enough to dress up with add-ins like bacon, breadcrumbs, or veggies. Once you try this version, boxed mac and cheese just won’t cut it anymore!

Ingredients Of Mac and Cheese Recipe

Why You Will Love This Mac and Cheese Recipe

This homemade mac and cheese is irresistibly creamy, cheesy, and comforting. It’s made with real ingredients and takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Unlike boxed versions, you get full control over the flavor and texture. Plus, it’s family-friendly, budget-conscious, and endlessly customizable. Add vegetables, proteins, or a crispy topping to make it your own!

Preparation Process Of Mac and Cheese Recipe

The process starts by boiling the pasta until al dente. Meanwhile, a roux is made by whisking flour and butter together, then slowly adding warm milk to form a creamy base. Cheese is melted in, transforming the sauce into a rich, smooth blend. The cooked pasta is folded in, and you can serve it as-is or bake it with a golden breadcrumb topping for added texture.

Step By Step Instructions

Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente (about 7–8 minutes). Drain and set aside.

Make the Roux: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Add Milk: Gradually whisk in warm milk. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the mixture thickens, stirring frequently.

Add Cheese & Seasonings: Lower the heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).

Combine with Pasta: Stir in the cooked macaroni and mix well until fully coated.

Optional Baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

How to Serve?

• Serve hot as a main dish with a side salad.
• Pair with roasted veggies or grilled chicken for a full meal.
• Great as a side for BBQs or holiday dinners.
• Garnish with fresh parsley, extra cheese, or a dash of hot sauce.

Tips & Variations

Nutrition

1. Calories: 460
2. Protein: 18g
3. Carbohydrates: 38g
4. Fat: 26g
5. Saturated Fat: 15g
6. Cholesterol: 70mg
7. Fiber: 2g
8. Sodium: 420mg

Recipe Card

Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe: Creamy Comfort in Every Bite

Recipe by Rachael rayCourse: Mac And Cheese Recipe

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Calories

460

kcal

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 3 cups whole milk (warm)

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Optional: ½ teaspoon paprika for color and flavor

• Optional topping: ½ cup breadcrumbs + 1 tablespoon melted butter

Directions

• Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente (about 7–8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
• Make the Roux: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
• Add Milk: Gradually whisk in warm milk. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the mixture thickens, stirring frequently.
• Add Cheese & Seasonings: Lower the heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using).
• Combine with Pasta: Stir in the cooked macaroni and mix well until fully coated.
• Optional Baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top. Bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Recipe Video

Notes

• Always shred your own cheese for the best melt and consistency.
• Let the sauce thicken fully before adding cheese to avoid grainy texture.
• If baking, undercook pasta slightly to avoid mushiness after oven time.
• Reheat leftovers gently on the stove with a splash of milk to regain creaminess.

FAQs

Conclusion