Mac and Cheese: A Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Food Classic

There’s nothing quite as comforting as a big bowl of Mac and Cheese. Creamy, cheesy, and rich, this dish is a timeless favorite that’s perfect for any occasion—whether as a side dish or a main course. With this easy, foolproof recipe, you’ll be able to make homemade mac and cheese that’s just as good as your favorite restaurant version, but with the added bonus of being made from scratch!

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 1 pound elbow macaroni (or your favorite pasta shape)
• Salt, for boiling pasta

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk (preferably warm)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for a little warmth)

For the Topping (optional):

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter
• 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley (optional for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta shape) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Stir constantly to avoid browning the flour.

Slowly add the warm milk to the roux while whisking continuously to ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce. Keep whisking until the sauce begins to thicken, about 4-5 minutes.

Once the sauce has thickened, add the shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir gently to combine, making sure the pasta is evenly coated in the creamy cheese sauce.

Step 4: Bake the Mac and Cheese (Optional)

If you want to make baked mac and cheese with a crispy topping, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mac and cheese. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve

Once the mac and cheese is done, serve immediately. If you prefer, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Serving Suggestions

Mac and Cheese is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with so many meals. It’s a great side dish to serve alongside roasted chicken, grilled steaks, or pulled pork. For a more indulgent meal, you can enjoy mac and cheese as a main course, especially when paired with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Why This Recipe Works

This Mac and Cheese recipe combines the richness of butter and the smoothness of the cheese sauce with the perfect balance of flavors from the spices. The creamy sauce coats the pasta beautifully, creating a luscious dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. The option to bake it with a crispy breadcrumb topping adds texture and an extra layer of flavor, making it perfect for special occasions or weeknight dinners.

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FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella are classic choices, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor. A mix of cheeses adds complexity to the dish.

2. Can I make mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can make mac and cheese ahead of time! Assemble the mac and cheese, then cover it and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. If you’re using a breadcrumb topping, add it just before baking.

3. Can I use low-fat milk?

You can use low-fat milk or even non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. However, the texture of the sauce might not be as creamy as it would be with whole milk. You can also add a little extra cheese to help balance the richness.

4. Can I make this mac and cheese gluten-free?

Yes! To make gluten-free mac and cheese, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure your pasta is gluten-free as well.

5. Can I add bacon or other proteins to the mac and cheese?

Yes! Bacon, sausage, or even grilled chicken are excellent additions to mac and cheese. Just cook the meat separately and stir it into the pasta before adding the cheese sauce for added flavor.

6. Can I skip the baking step?

Yes, you can skip the baking step if you prefer a stovetop mac and cheese. After combining the pasta and cheese sauce, serve it directly from the pot for a creamy, quick meal.

7. How do I store leftovers?

Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

8. Can I freeze mac and cheese?

Yes, mac and cheese freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake or microwave until hot.

9. How can I make the sauce extra creamy?

For an extra creamy mac and cheese, you can add a bit of cream cheese to the sauce or use a higher fat cheese like cream cheese, mascarpone, or a bit of heavy cream.

10. Can I make this recipe without the breadcrumb topping?

Yes, if you prefer a more classic mac and cheese without the crispy topping, simply skip the breadcrumb step and serve the creamy mac and cheese straight from the pot.