mac & cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
mac & cheese recipe
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The Best mac & cheese recipe

I’ve been making mac and cheese for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. My kids love it because it’s a comforting, familiar dish that never fails to put a smile on their faces.

As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to make – just cook the pasta, mix it with a blend of cheeses and some creamy sauce, and you’re done. It’s a perfect recipe for weeknights when I’m short on time, but also great for special occasions like holiday gatherings or potlucks.

One of the best things about mac and cheese is its versatility – you can customize it with different types of pasta, cheese blends, and add-ins like ham or broccoli. Plus, it’s relatively healthy compared to other comfort foods – I use whole wheat pasta and plenty of veggies to keep it balanced.

My family loves this recipe because it’s not only delicious but also nostalgic – every time we have it, we’re reminded of happy times spent together at home.

Classic Mac and Cheese

Classic Mac and Cheese

4.7 from 1033 votes

A comforting classic dish featuring tender pasta in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder

For the Topping

1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
3Drain and set aside.
4The pasta should be slightly firm to the bite, with a thin white line visible in the center.
5In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
6Add the flour and whisk to form a roux.
7Cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, until the mixture turns a light brown color and gives off a slightly nutty aroma.
8Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
9Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens slightly and begins to bubble gently.
10This should take about 5-7 minutes.
11Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
12Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
13If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
14In a separate bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, olive oil, and grated parmesan cheese.
15Combine the cooked pasta and cheese sauce in a baking dish, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated.
16Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the pasta.
17Preheat your oven to 375°F.
18Bake the mac and cheese for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.
19The cheese should be melted and gooey, with a crispy, golden crust on top.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Spoon
Saucepan
Whisk
Baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

You can customize this recipe with your favorite cheese or add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.

Watch Video Of How Classic Mac and Cheese Works

Macaroni and cheese is one of those timeless recipes that never fails me – whether I’m feeding my family after school or entertaining guests at dinner parties. To store leftovers safely, keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat by steaming until hot throughout.

When reheating frozen macaroni and cheese portions (yes!) , steam them first before finishing off in the oven or toaster oven until golden brown on top.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mac and Cheese

What type of pasta should I use for macaroni and cheese?

While traditional elbow macaroni works well in this recipe, feel free to experiment with other shapes like shells or cavatappi for added texture.

Can I make macaroni and cheese without milk?

Yes! You can substitute milk with almond milk or another non-dairy alternative if you prefer.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from separating?

Simply whisk the mixture before adding the hot pasta to ensure everything stays combined.

Is there a way to make macaroni and cheese more nutritious?

Try adding steamed broccoli florets or diced cooked chicken for added protein.

Why does my macaroni and cheese often turn out too dry?

Make sure not to overcook the pasta – al dente is key – then adjust your sauce ratio accordingly.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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