The smell of melted cheese bubbling in the oven instantly takes me back to my mom’s stovetop steam rising, elbows on the counter, waiting for the first scoop. This homemade mac and cheese brings that same creamy comfort, and it’s no wonder it’s a hit all over the internet right now. It’s warm, rich, and absolute soul food.
Sharp cheddar, a splash of milk, and elbow noodles are the heart of this cozy dish. You stir up a simple roux just butter and flour so the sauce comes out velvety, never gloopy. It’s got that old-fashioned flavor with a faster, fuss-free twist. Everything cooks up in one pot before a quick bake for golden crust. Pantry staples, no roux panic, and yes, it reheats like a dream.
I first made this version during a snowy weekend in January 2016, stuck inside with two hungry teenagers and not much in the fridge. My son snuck the first bite straight from the pot and just said, “Whoa.” That’s when I learned a broiled finish adds the perfect crispy layer just 2 minutes under the heat does the trick. After years behind the lens and in the test kitchen, this one’s still my go-to when family needs food that hugs back.
Thomas Baker
Homemade Mac and Cheese: Irresistibly Delicious Recipe
This Homemade Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort meal, boasting a luscious, creamy texture with an irresistibly cheesy flavor. Whether you’re craving an Old-fashioned Mac and Cheese or a Basic Mac N Cheese Recipe, this dish stands out as a go-to choice. Perfect as a main course alongside a fresh vegetable or salad, or as a tasty side, this Mac and Cheese recipe is simple to prepare and sure to satisfy the whole family.
16 ounces short pasta shapes such as elbow macaroni or shells
8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese shredded about 2 cups divided
8 ounces sharp white cheddar cheese shredded about 2 cups divided
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk low fat or whole
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Method
Prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by greasing it with butter or spraying with cooking spray and heat your oven to 375°F.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package until it’s just tender. Drain well, then return the pasta to the pot.
While the pasta cooks, mix together the sharp cheddar and sharp white cheddar cheeses in a bowl.
In a medium saucepan on medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and keep whisking until the mixture turns a light golden color, about 1-2 minutes.
Slowly add in the milk while whisking continuously. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, which should take around 5 minutes, then remove it from heat.
Season the sauce by whisking in salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Next, fold in half of the cheese mixture until it melts smoothly.
Pour this cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and stir everything together to coat the noodles evenly.
Transfer half of the cheesy pasta into the prepared baking dish, sprinkle one-third of the remaining cheese on top, then layer the rest of the pasta over it.
Finish by spreading the remaining cheese evenly across the top.
Bake the casserole uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes, until it’s bubbling and the cheese on top has melted beautifully.
Notes
You can assemble this mac and cheese up to one day in advance. Simply cover and refrigerate it overnight. When ready to cook, allow it to rest at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking, and then add approximately 10 extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Mac and Cheese
Comfort food bliss: This recipe delivers that classic, creamy goodness we all crave nostalgic and deeply satisfying.
No-fuss ingredients: Pantry staples like pasta, cheese, and milk come together effortlessly for a stress-free dish.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a side for holiday gatherings, this dish hits all the right notes.
Customizable: Use your favorite cheese combo, spice it up with paprika or garlic powder, and make it just the way you love it.
Key Ingredients and Simple Prep Tools
This recipe keeps things practical with everyday ingredients and tools you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
Pasta: Short shapes like elbow macaroni or shells are perfect for holding the creamy sauce. Cook them al dente for the best texture.
Cheeses: A mix of sharp cheddar and white cheddar adds bold, tangy flavor. Pre-shredded works in a pinch, but freshly shredded melts more smoothly.
Basic pantry staples: Unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, and milk come together to create a velvety roux-based cheese sauce.
Spices: Salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder add a warm, savory kick.
You’ll also need a large pot for the pasta, a medium saucepan for the sauce, and a 9×13-inch baking dish for that signature bubbly finish.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Homemade Mac and Cheese
Cook the pasta: Boil the pasta until al dente, drain, and set it aside in the same pot to save on dishes.
Prepare the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour until golden, and gradually add milk while whisking to avoid clumps. Season and stir in half the cheese until melted.
Combine and layer: Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta, then layer with the remaining cheese in a greased baking dish for that irresistible gooey texture.
Bake to perfection: Bake uncovered at 375°F for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, forming a golden crust.
Pro Tip: For a crispy finish, broil for an additional 2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning!
Troubleshooting and Tips
Lumpy sauce? Whisk continuously while adding the milk to ensure a smooth roux. If lumps form, strain the sauce before adding cheese.
Dry pasta bake? Be generous with the sauce the pasta will absorb some of the liquid as it bakes.
Make ahead: Assemble up to a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready, adding 10 minutes to the baking time.
Reheating: Stir in a splash of milk when reheating leftovers to restore creaminess.
Serving and Storage
Serving ideas: Pair this homemade mac and cheese with a crisp green salad or simple roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze fully cooled portions in individual containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Storage Method
Timeframe
Reheat Tips
Refrigerator
Up to 4 days
Add a splash of milk when microwaving or reheating in the oven.
Freezer
Up to 2 months
Thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat at 350°F until warmed through.
Expert Says
Homemade mac and cheese benefits from combining sharp and creamy cheeses, which enhances both flavor and meltability. Using a roux-based cheese sauce ensures a smooth texture by preventing separation, while cooking pasta just shy of al dente helps it absorb the sauce without becoming mushy during baking.
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The Secret to Truly Creamy Homemade Mac and Cheese
After countless attempts, including a few burned sauces and clumpy moments, I finally perfected this homemade mac and cheese. Each try taught me how to balance creaminess with just the right melt, resulting in a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate the kind your family will ask for again and again.
FAQs ( Homemade Mac and Cheese )
How do I make this mac and cheese creamier?
To get a creamy texture, use a combination of milk and heavy cream for the cheese sauce. Stir the sauce gently on low heat to avoid curdling and add shredded cheese gradually for smooth melting. You can also finish with a small pat of butter for silkiness before mixing with cooked pasta.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish stores well and can be made a day in advance. Prepare the cheese sauce and pasta separately, then combine before baking. Cover tightly and refrigerate, then bake at 350°F until heated through and bubbly, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What cheese is best for the best mac n cheese recipe?
A blend of sharp cheddar and mild cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella offers great melt and flavor balance. Using freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded ensures a creamier sauce without additives that affect texture.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta until just al dente and drain well. Avoid overcooking since it will continue softening in the sauce and oven. Toss pasta immediately with the cheese sauce to coat and prevent sticking, then bake without adding extra liquid.
Can I add other ingredients to this meal?
Yes, you can customize this dish by adding cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or steamed vegetables like broccoli. Add these extras just before baking for even distribution and to keep flavors fresh without altering the creamy texture.
Conclusion
You’ll love how this homemade mac and cheese comes together in under an hour, filling your kitchen with that irresistible cheesy aroma and a golden, bubbly crust. It’s creamy comfort that feels like a warm hug every single time.
Try stirring in a pinch of smoked paprika or swap half the cheddar for Gruyère to mix things up. Leftovers? A quick splash of milk while reheating brings back all the silky goodnessa little trick I borrowed from my aunt’s cozy kitchen.
I’d love to see your versions or hear storiesdid mac and cheese remind you of family dinners, too? Save this recipe for nights when you need a simple, comforting classic. Here’s to full plates and happy hearts in your home.
With a passion for wholesome cooking inspired by family traditions, I create healthy, simple recipes focused on sourdough, shrimp, chicken, and balanced meals for everyday wellness.
Every recipe here is tested in my kitchen using U.S. measurements and easy-to-find ingredients, so you can cook confidently.
Thank you for joining this cozy community where nutritious and delicious meals come together.
