What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade macaroni and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting—perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner. You’ll love how easy it is to make, with simple ingredients you probably already have.
- Rich and creamy texture—no dry or clumpy cheese sauce here, just smooth, velvety goodness.
- Customizable flavors—add bacon, veggies, or extra spices to make it your own.
- Kid-approved favorite—it’s a guaranteed hit with picky eaters and grown-ups alike.
Recipe
Homemade macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food dish that combines creamy cheese sauce with tender pasta for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, salt, pepper, and paprika to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until the mixture is smooth and thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and creamy.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well-coated.
- Serve immediately, or transfer to a baking dish, top with additional cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes for a golden crust.
Notes
For a richer flavor, use a combination of cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan.
Equipment
Medium saucepan, whisk, colander, baking dish (optional)
Time
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Cuisine
American
Serving
Serves 4
Nutrition
Macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food, but its nutritional content can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes. Below is the approximate nutritional information for one serving of homemade macaroni and cheese.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Total Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Cholesterol | 45 mg |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 32 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Calcium | 300 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade mac and cheese with classic sides like garlic bread or roasted veggies—they add just the right crunch. A fresh salad with crisp greens and a tangy dressing also balances the richness perfectly. Trust me, these combos turn a simple dish into a meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Classic Side Dishes
When you’re serving up a creamy, comforting bowl of mac and cheese, you’ll want sides that balance its richness without stealing the spotlight. Garlic bread’s crispy exterior and buttery flavor make it a go-to pairing—it’s perfect for scooping up every last bit of cheese. Roasted vegetables, like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, add a crunchy texture and earthy flavor that complements the dish’s creaminess. If you’re craving something tangy, coleslaw’s cool crunch cuts through the cheese perfectly. For a Southern twist, cornbread’s sweetness contrasts beautifully with mac’s savory richness, making every bite feel like a cozy hug.
Fresh Salad Options
A bowl of crisp greens can be the perfect partner for that creamy mac and cheese you’ve been dreaming about. I love tossing together a simple garden salad with romaine, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber—it’s light, invigorating, and balances the richness of the dish. For something heartier, a kale Caesar with crunchy croutons adds texture. If you’re feeling fancy, try an apple-walnut salad with a tangy vinaigrette; the sweetness cuts through the cheese perfectly. And don’t forget a classic wedge salad—cool, crisp iceberg with blue cheese dressing is a match made in comfort-food heaven. Trust me, you’ll want seconds of both!
