Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe
If there’s one dish that instantly transports you back to childhood, it’s the classic Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe. Creamy, ultra-cheesy, and golden on top, each bite is an irresistible comfort-food hug. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or planning the ultimate side for a family feast, this Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe delivers all the goodies: tender pasta enrobed in a dreamy, rich cheese sauce, with plenty of room for your own flavorful twists. Let’s dive into my go-to version—you’ll definitely want to bookmark this one!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This is a simply gorgeous lineup, so don’t be tempted to skip out on the stars! Each ingredient really plays a key role in bringing out the creamy texture, irresistible flavor, and golden color that define the Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe.
- Elbow macaroni (12 oz): The classic shape holds on to all that luscious cheese sauce, but you can use your favorite pasta, too!
- Unsalted butter (4 tbsp): Creates a savory, silky base for your sauce—it’s worth using real butter here for ultimate richness.
- All-purpose flour (¼ cup): Helps thicken the sauce for that velvety finish.
- Whole milk (3 cups, warmed): The full-fat milk ensures a creamy, smooth sauce.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): This takes your sauce from good to decadent—don’t skip it for the creamiest Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe!
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (2 ½ cups): For classic cheesy tang and rich color.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Adds stretchiness and that beautiful melt factor.
- Garlic powder (½ tsp): A subtle flavor boost that deepens every bite.
- Mustard powder (½ tsp, optional): This is your secret weapon for tangy, complex flavor.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): The essentials for perfectly seasoned sauce.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup, optional topping): Gives your finished dish extra bite and depth.
- Seasoned breadcrumbs (½ cup, optional topping): For a signature crunchy, golden crust—baked mac and cheese is next-level comfort!
How to Make Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your elbow macaroni and cook according to the package directions until al dente—firm but not mushy. Drain well and set aside. This ensures your pasta won’t turn to mush when folded into that creamy cheese sauce later.
Step 2: Make the Roux
In a roomy saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it’s bubbling, whisk in the flour to form a smooth paste—this is called a roux, and it’s what gives your Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe that dreamy, thick texture. Stir for about 1–2 minutes to get rid of any raw flour taste, but don’t let it brown!
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Gradually whisk in the warm whole milk and heavy cream, making sure there are no lumps. Keep your whisk moving! Let the mixture cook for 4–5 minutes until it thickens; you’re looking for a consistency that’ll coat the back of a spoon. This is when the magic starts to happen.
Step 4: Add Seasoning and Cheese
Turn the heat to low and stir in the garlic powder, mustard powder if you’re using it, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Add your sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses in handfuls, stirring gently after each addition. Patience is key: let each portion melt fully for the silkiest cheese sauce.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Gently fold your cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until every nook and cranny is coated. This step is pure therapy—you’ll see the sauce turn glossy as it hugs each macaroni elbow, and the aroma will be out of this world!
Step 6: Optional—Bake for a Golden Crust
If you love a crispy, golden topping, preheat your oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish, pour in your mac and cheese, and smooth the top. Mix together the breadcrumbs and Parmesan, then sprinkle generously over the surface. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden-brown. Trust me, your whole kitchen will smell heavenly!
How to Serve Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
For a little extra color and flavor, sprinkle your Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe with fresh chopped parsley, snipped chives, or a dash of smoked paprika just before serving. If you love spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be fun, too! These simple garnishes add brightness and wow-factor for both taste and presentation.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully satisfying on its own, but pairs beautifully with lighter sides like a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or buttery peas. Crusty garlic bread is always a winning partner—perfect for soaking up any extra cheese sauce left in your bowl!
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe into something truly special by serving it in individual ramekins, or as a base for a DIY toppings bar (think bacon bits, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions).
For potlucks or holiday gatherings, scoop it into a cast iron skillet or a vintage casserole dish—the rustic look is always a crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To store any extra Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe, let it cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers. Kept in the fridge, it will stay fresh and creamy for up to 3–4 days. This makes it a fantastic meal-prep option for busy weeks!
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze your Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe. Spoon cooled portions into airtight freezer-safe containers. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for best results so that it reheats evenly and stays creamy.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat macaroni and cheese gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream, stirring often. You can also reheat in the microwave, loosely covered, in short bursts for even warming. If baking from frozen, cover tightly and bake at 350°F until warmed through, then uncover for a few minutes to let the top crisp up again.
FAQs
Can I use different cheeses in this Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, Fontina, or even pepper jack for a subtle kick. Blending cheeses will add layers of flavor and create an even more complex, melty sauce.
How can I make this recipe gluten free?
To make a gluten-free version, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta and substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The rest of the ingredients remain deliciously unchanged!
What’s the secret to keeping mac and cheese creamy?
The key is not to overbake and to use a good amount of cheese-to-liquid ratio. Adding heavy cream not only enriches the sauce, but also helps prevent it from drying out. Be sure to serve your Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe as soon as it’s creamy and hot for maximum ooey-gooey goodness!
Can I prepare this Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe ahead for a party?
You sure can! Assemble the dish (without baking) up to a day in advance. Cover tightly and refrigerate, then bake just before serving. Add an extra splash of milk before baking to keep it creamy after chilling.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, the core recipe is vegetarian as written, using dairy cheeses and no meat. Just check your cheese labels to confirm they use vegetarian-friendly rennet if needed.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe is a celebration of comfort, flavor, and nostalgia all at once. I hope it finds a spot in your regular rotation, whether you’re serving it at a family table or sneaking a cozy bowl for yourself. Try it soon—you’ll taste the love in every bite!
Print
Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this homemade mac and cheese recipe. Creamy and cheesy, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a side for your favorite meal.
Ingredients
Elbow Macaroni:
12 oz
Unsalted Butter:
4 tablespoons
All-Purpose Flour:
1/4 cup
Whole Milk:
3 cups, warmed
Heavy Cream:
1 cup
Sharp Cheddar Cheese:
2 1/2 cups, shredded
Mozzarella Cheese:
1 cup, shredded
Garlic Powder:
1/2 teaspoon
Mustard Powder:
1/2 teaspoon (optional)
Salt and Black Pepper:
to taste
Parmesan Cheese:
1/2 cup, grated (optional topping)
Seasoned Breadcrumbs:
1/2 cup (optional topping)
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, then slowly add warm milk and cream. Cook until thickened, then add seasonings and cheeses, stirring until smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- For Baked Mac and Cheese: Preheat oven to 375°F, transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan, then bake until golden and bubbly.
- Serve warm.
Notes
- Feel free to mix in other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or Fontina for added depth.
- For extra flavor, stir in cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or roasted garlic.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course or Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop (and optional baking)
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 470 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 44 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
