What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This mac and cheese recipe is a comforting classic that’s quick to make and hard to resist.
- Creamy and cheesy goodness: A perfect blend of melted cheese and silky sauce in every bite.
- Simple ingredients: Easy-to-find items come together for a dish that feels special.
- Family favorite: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s great for any occasion or a cozy night in.
Recipe
Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort food loved by many for its creamy, cheesy goodness. This simple yet delicious dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
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 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon 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.
- Slowly pour in milk while stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
- Add cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni.
- Serve hot.
Notes:
- For extra creaminess, use a mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella.
- Add breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crispy finish.
Equipment:
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Colander
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4
Nutrition
Below is the nutritional information for a typical serving of mac and cheese.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 7 g |
| Cholesterol | 30 mg |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 35 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Protein | 10 g |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my mac and cheese with buttery garlic bread because the crispy crust soaks up all that cheesy goodness. A handful of crispy bacon bits on top adds a salty crunch that takes it to the next level. Trust me, these simple sides turn a cozy dish into something extra special.
Buttery Garlic Bread
Nothing beats warm, buttery garlic bread when you’re serving a creamy bowl of mac and cheese—it’s the perfect side to soak up every last bite. I love how the crunchy crust contrasts with the soft center, especially when it’s slathered with garlic butter and sprinkled with parsley. It’s super easy to make: just slice a baguette, mix softened butter with minced garlic and herbs, spread it generously, then bake until golden. The smell alone will make your kitchen feel like a restaurant. Trust me, once you try this combo, you’ll wonder how you ever had mac and cheese without it.
Crispy Bacon Bits
Adding crispy bacon bits to mac and cheese takes it to a whole new level—it’s salty, smoky, and adds that perfect crunch. I love how it balances the creamy cheese sauce, making every bite more exciting. To make them, I cook bacon strips until they’re crispy, then chop them into small pieces. Sometimes, I’ll sprinkle them on top just before serving, or mix them right into the pasta for extra flavor. It’s a simple addition, but it makes a big difference. My family always asks for it this way, and honestly, I don’t blame them—it’s irresistible.
