Description
This classic macaroni and cheese is creamy, cheesy, and comforting. Made with a homemade cheese sauce and tender pasta, it can be enjoyed stovetop or baked with a crispy topping.
Ingredients
1 lb elbow macaroni
Salt (for pasta water)
4 tbsp (1/4 cup) butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk (warm)
1 cup heavy cream (or more milk)
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella or Monterey Jack, shredded
1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup panko or breadcrumbs (optional topping)
2 tbsp butter, melted (for topping)
Extra shredded cheese (for topping)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until just al dente (1–2 minutes less than package directions), then drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the warm milk and cream. Stir constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer for 5–6 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in garlic powder and mustard powder, if using.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheeses until smooth and melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix until evenly coated. Serve as is or prepare for baking.
- (Optional) Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour mac and cheese into a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top along with extra cheese. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese to prevent grainy sauce.
To make it gluten-free, use GF pasta and GF flour blend for roux.
Add-ins like bacon, jalapeños, or vegetables can personalize the dish.
Store leftovers in fridge up to 4 days; reheat gently with milk.
Freeze before baking for best texture; bake from frozen with added time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
