What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade mac and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting, making it the perfect dish for any occasion.
- Rich and creamy texture that melts in your mouth, thanks to a blend of three cheeses.
- Easy to customize with your favorite add-ins, like crispy bacon or fresh veggies.
- Ready in under 30 minutes, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
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.
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, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and paprika to form 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.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated.
- Serve immediately.
Notes:
- For a crispier top, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and broil for 2-3 minutes.
- Substitute cheeses as desired (e.g., Gruyère or Gouda).
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Saucepan
- Whisk
- Colander
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American
Serving: 4 servings
Nutrition
This homemade mac and cheese recipe provides a rich and comforting dish. Here is its nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Total Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Cholesterol | 60 mg |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 6 g |
| Protein | 18 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade mac and cheese with a crisp side salad or some warm garlic bread—it balances the richness perfectly. A simple salad with fresh greens adds a nice crunch, while garlic bread gives that extra buttery, savory bite. You can’t go wrong with either, so pick what sounds best to you!
Side Salad
Since mac and cheese is such a rich, comforting dish, pairing it with a fresh side salad balances the meal perfectly. I love tossing together crisp greens like romaine or spinach with colorful veggies—think cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and shredded carrots. A tangy vinaigrette or light lemon dressing cuts through the creaminess of the mac and cheese, making each bite invigorating. Sometimes, I’ll add extras like croutons or sunflower seeds for a bit of crunch. It’s a simple way to round out the meal, and it feels less heavy overall. A side salad is my go-to because it’s quick, healthy, and delicious!
Garlic Bread
While a side salad keeps things light, garlic bread turns mac and cheese into the ultimate comfort feast. I love baking a golden loaf, smothered in butter and fragrant garlic, to dip into that creamy cheese sauce. It’s crispy on the outside, soft inside, and adds a savory punch that complements the richness perfectly. I often sprinkle parsley or Parmesan for extra flavor. Trust me, it’s impossible to resist tearing off pieces as soon as it’s out of the oven. Whether store-bought or homemade, garlic bread transforms a simple meal into something truly indulgent, making every bite unforgettable.
