simple mac cheese recipe

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

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite comfort food recipes – a simple mac cheese recipe that never fails to put smiles on our faces. As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for easy and delicious meals that can be prepared in no time, and this recipe fits the bill perfectly. My kids love it when I make this for dinner, and it’s also a great option for potlucks or family gatherings.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for even the most novice cook. In fact, I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it’s always been a hit with my family and friends.

The creamy pasta, the crispy top, and the comforting flavor all come together to create a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this simple mac cheese recipe is sure to become a staple in your household too. I love how versatile this dish is – it can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy families like mine.

And let’s not forget about the leftovers – this dish reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it for days to come. But what really sets this recipe apart is the way it brings people together. There’s something about sharing a warm bowl of macaroni and cheese that just feels like home.

And let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the smell of melted cheese wafting from the oven – it’s like a big hug in a bowl! So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and get ready to fall in love with the simplest yet most comforting mac cheese recipe ever.

Simple Mac and Cheese Recipe

Simple Mac and Cheese Recipe

4.9 from 972 votes

This classic mac and cheese recipe is creamy, comforting, and easy to prepare. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Mac and Cheese

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

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
2Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3Drain the pasta using a colander and set aside.
4In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
5Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk to form a roux.
6Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden color.
7Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form.
8Continue to cook the sauce over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
9This should take about 5-7 minutes.
10Remove the sauce from the heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
11Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
12If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
13Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined.
14If the pasta is too hot, it will make the sauce too thin.
15If the pasta is too cold, it will make the sauce too thick.
16Serve the mac and cheese immediately while it’s hot and creamy.
17You can garnish it with additional shredded cheese, chopped parsley, or breadcrumbs if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Saucepan
Whisk

📊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

Tips: For a creamier mac and cheese, you can add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

This simple mac cheese recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal for family gatherings.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize – feel free to add your favorite mix-ins or spices to make it your own.

And don’t worry about leftovers – this dish reheats beautifully in just 5 minutes or can be frozen for up to 2 months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mac and Cheese

Q: What type of pasta is best for mac cheese?

The best type of pasta for mac cheese is elbow macaroni – its curved shape allows it to hold onto the cheesy sauce perfectly.

Q: Can I use different types of cheese?

While traditional cheddar is classic, you can definitely experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or parmesan for a unique twist.

Q: How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

To avoid mushy pasta, make sure to cook it al dente and then mix it with the cheesy sauce just before serving.

Q: Can I add any protein to this dish?

Feel free to add cooked bacon or ham to give your mac cheese an extra boost of flavor.

Q: How do I store leftover mac cheese?

You can store leftover mac cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months.

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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