Description
This mac and cheese recipe delivers incredible creaminess and rich flavor. It’s an easy homemade mac and cheese perfect for any occasion, customizable with your favorite additions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in milk and heavy cream while whisking to prevent lumps. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
- For baked mac and cheese, transfer to a greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce.
- For extra flavor, add a mix of cheeses like Gruyère or gouda.
- Avoid overheating the sauce to prevent graininess.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Pasta
- Method: Stovetop, Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 530mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: Mac Cheese, Mac and cheese recipe, Easy mac and cheese, Homemade mac and cheese, Creamy mac and cheese, Cheesy pasta bake