Easy Homemade Mac & Cheese Recipe
Introduction
Homemade mac and cheese is a comforting classic that’s surprisingly easy to make from scratch. This recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy sauce that clings perfectly to tender macaroni noodles—ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal any time.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. macaroni noodles (about 1 and 3/4 cups)
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 Tbsp. butter, cut into 8 pieces
- 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook macaroni according to the package directions. Drain the noodles and return them to the pot you cooked them in.
- Step 2: While the macaroni is cooking, combine the milk and flour in a jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Shake well until thoroughly mixed.
- Step 3: Give the milk and flour mixture one more good shake, then pour it into the pot with the drained macaroni.
- Step 4: Place the pot over medium heat and stir continuously until the sauce thickens and just begins to simmer. Remove the pot from the heat immediately.
- Step 5: Stir in the butter pieces and shredded Cheddar cheese until the butter is melted and the cheese is fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips & Variations
- Use sharp or extra-sharp Cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor.
- For a richer sauce, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle kick.
- Mix in cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for extra texture and flavor.
Storage
Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. Avoid overheating, which can cause the sauce to separate.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, while macaroni is traditional, other small pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne work well because they hold the cheese sauce nicely.
How can I make mac and cheese creamier?
Using whole milk or adding some cream will make the sauce richer. Also, stirring in the butter and cheese off the heat helps maintain a smooth, creamy texture.
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Easy Homemade Mac & Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Easy Homemade Mac & Cheese recipe delivers a creamy, comforting classic made from scratch with simple ingredients. Perfectly cooked macaroni noodles are enveloped in a rich cheddar cheese sauce, thickened with a smooth milk and flour mixture, and finished with butter for extra richness. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a family favorite that’s both straightforward and satisfying.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz. macaroni noodles (about 1 and 3/4 cups)
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 Tbsp. butter, cut into 8 pieces
- 2 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Macaroni: Cook the macaroni noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and return the noodles to the pot used for cooking.
- Prepare Milk Mixture: While the macaroni cooks, combine the milk and flour in a jar or container with a tight-fitting lid. Shake vigorously until the flour is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Combine Milk Mixture with Macaroni: Give the milk and flour mixture one more thorough shake, then pour it into the pot with the drained macaroni noodles.
- Cook Sauce: Place the pot over medium heat and continuously stir the mixture. Cook until the sauce thickens and just begins to simmer. Remove immediately from heat to prevent curdling.
- Add Butter and Cheese: Stir in the butter pieces until melted and fully incorporated. Then gradually add the shredded sharp Cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.
Notes
- Use sharp Cheddar cheese for the best flavor and meltability.
- Stir constantly when cooking the sauce to avoid lumps and prevent scorching.
- If sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach desired consistency.
- For a richer flavor, substitute some of the milk with half-and-half or cream.
- Use gluten-free flour to make this recipe gluten-free if needed.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: homemade mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, quick mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, stovetop mac and cheese
