Nothing beats a warm, creamy bowl of Classic Mac and Cheese. Made with a rich, cheesy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is the ultimate comfort food for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for BBQ or as a hearty main course, this homemade mac and cheese recipe will become a go-to favorite.
Let’s dive in!
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (warmed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional, for tang)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for extra richness)
Tools:
- Large pot
- Whisk
- Baking dish (if baking)
- Cheese grater
Pro Tips
- Use block cheese and shred it yourself. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
- Warm the milk before adding it to the roux. This helps create a smoother, lump-free sauce.
- For a stronger flavor, mix in Gruyère or smoked Gouda.
- If you prefer baked mac and cheese, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
Substitutions and Variations
- Extra Creamy Mac & Cheese: Replace some of the milk with more heavy cream.
- Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños for heat.
- Protein-Packed: Stir in cooked chicken, bacon, or shrimp.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and swap the flour for cornstarch.
How to Make It
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden (this is the roux).
Slowly whisk in the warm milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until thickened (about 3–4 minutes).
3. Add the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until fully melted. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and mustard powder.
4. Combine with Pasta
Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until fully coated.
5. Serve or Bake
Serve immediately for a stovetop mac and cheese, or transfer to a buttered baking dish, top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Leftovers and Storage
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Add a splash of milk and warm over low heat, stirring frequently.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
How to Serve Classic Mac and Cheese
- BBQ Side Dish: Serve alongside smoked ribs, pulled pork, or grilled chicken.
- Loaded Mac: Top with crispy bacon, green onions, or buffalo chicken.
- Cheesy Casserole: Add extra cheese and breadcrumbs, then bake until golden brown.
- Family Dinner: Pair with roasted veggies or a simple salad for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This Classic Mac and Cheese is rich, creamy, and full of bold cheesy flavor. Whether you make it stovetop or baked, it’s a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal.
