Few dishes are as nostalgic, comforting, and satisfying as a classic macaroni cheese. This creamy, cheesy, and delicious dish is the ultimate go-to for a quick and easy meal that never fails to hit the spot. Whether you’re making it for weeknight dinners, lazy Sundays, or a cozy meal on a chilly day, nothing beats homemade mac and cheese!
While there are fancy versions out there, sometimes all you need is the good old-fashioned, plain macaroni cheese—just pasta, butter, milk, and lots of cheese. Let’s get cooking!
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups macaroni pasta (or any short pasta like elbow, shells, or penne)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk for extra creaminess)
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded (or a mix of cheeses)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for flavor)
Optional Additions:
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder (for depth of flavor)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (for extra cheesiness)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (for a subtle kick)
🔥 How to Make Classic Macaroni Cheese
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the macaroni pasta and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly to form a roux.
- Slowly add milk, whisking continuously until smooth and thickened.
- Stir in salt, pepper, and paprika.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
- Lower the heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheese, one handful at a time, until melted.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and mix until evenly coated.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Serve hot with a sprinkle of extra cheese on top.
- Pair with garlic bread, salad, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.
⏳ Servings & Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
🌟 Variations to Try
1. Baked Mac and Cheese
- Pour the mac and cheese into a buttered baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until golden brown.
2. Extra Creamy Mac and Cheese
- Add ½ cup of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese for an ultra-rich sauce.
3. Spicy Mac and Cheese
- Stir in hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños for a fiery twist.
4. One-Pot Mac and Cheese
- Skip the roux and cook pasta directly in milk for a super easy, one-pot version.
❄️ Storage & Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Not recommended, as the sauce can separate.
Reheating
- Stovetop: Heat with a splash of milk, stirring constantly.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
❓ 10 Frequently Asked Questions
1. What’s the best cheese for mac and cheese?
Cheddar is the classic choice, but Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Mozzarella work well too!
2. Can I make this without flour?
Yes! Use cornstarch as a thickener, or try a one-pot mac and cheese method.
3. How do I prevent the cheese sauce from getting grainy?
Use low heat and add cheese gradually, stirring constantly.
4. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
It’s better to grate your own cheese—pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
5. How can I make it healthier?
- Use whole wheat pasta for extra fiber.
- Swap regular cheese for reduced-fat cheese.
- Replace some of the milk with vegetable broth for a lighter sauce.
6. Can I make mac and cheese without milk?
Yes! Try using heavy cream, almond milk, or even chicken broth as a substitute.
7. How do I keep mac and cheese creamy after reheating?
Add a splash of milk and stir well while reheating to bring back the creamy texture.
8. Can I make this mac and cheese gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and swap flour for cornstarch or gluten-free flour.
9. What can I serve with mac and cheese?
Great pairings include garlic bread, roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a fresh salad.
10. How do I make mac and cheese extra cheesy?
Use a combination of cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Gruyère for a deeper flavor.
🏆 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Super Easy & Quick – Ready in just 20 minutes!
✔ Creamy & Cheesy – Perfectly gooey and satisfying.
✔ Customizable – Add your favorite toppings or mix-ins.
✔ Kid-Friendly & Family-Approved – A classic that everyone loves!
If you’re craving simple, homemade comfort food, this plain old mac and cheese is the perfect recipe. It’s warm, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying—a meal that will never go out of style.
🔥 Tried this recipe? Let us know your favorite mac and cheese toppings in the comments! 😊