There's something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy, homemade mac and cheese. The way the cheese sauce clings to each piece of pasta, delivering that perfect blend of sharp, melty goodness, is a culinary hug in a bowl. This dish is a timeless classic, loved by kids and adults alike, and is surprisingly easy to make from scratch.

I first started making this recipe during my college years when I was determined to ditch the boxed variety for something more wholesome. With a handful of pantry staples and a little time, it became my go-to for cozy nights in or when I needed to impress friends at a potluck. Let me show you just how simple – and rewarding – this recipe can be!
Why You'll Love This Homemade Mac and Cheese
Get ready to fall head over heels for this homemade mac and cheese. It's creamy, cheesy, and full of rich flavor – a comfort food dream come true.
First, this recipe is quick and easy. You can have it on the table in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when you need to whip up a last-minute meal.
Second, it’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. No preservatives or artificial flavors here – just real cheese, milk, butter, and pasta.
Another reason to love this dish? It’s endlessly customizable. Add bacon, swap in different cheeses, or toss in some veggies for a complete meal. The possibilities are endless!
Finally, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you're serving picky kids or impressing dinner guests, this mac and cheese never fails to delight. Ready to dive in? Let’s start with the ingredients.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of homemade mac and cheese lies in its simplicity. Here's a breakdown of the key ingredients:
- Pasta: The backbone of this dish. Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but shells, cavatappi, or penne work beautifully too. These shapes hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar is a must for flavor, but adding a bit of Gruyère or Parmesan takes it to the next level. Grate your cheese fresh – pre-shredded varieties don’t melt as smoothly.
- Milk: Whole milk gives the sauce its rich creaminess. You can substitute half-and-half for an even more indulgent texture.
- Butter and Flour: Together, they form a roux, the base of the creamy cheese sauce.
- Seasonings: A pinch of salt, black pepper, and a touch of paprika or mustard powder enhances the overall flavor profile.
Equipment tip: You'll need a large pot for boiling pasta, a saucepan for the cheese sauce, and a whisk to ensure a lump-free roux.
How to Make This Homemade Mac and Cheese

Making mac and cheese from scratch is easier than you think! Here's how to do it step by step:
- Cook the pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the roux: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in flour until a smooth paste forms. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Create the sauce: Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens slightly – about 5 minutes.
- Add the cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheese a handful at a time. Stir until melted and creamy.
- Combine and serve: Toss the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated. Serve immediately for the ultimate gooey goodness!
Pro Tip: For a baked version, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan, and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.
Storage Options
Leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerator: Place mac and cheese in an airtight container and store for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: For longer storage, transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
To reheat, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Avoid overheating to prevent the cheese sauce from separating.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about mac and cheese is its versatility. Here are some fun ways to mix it up:
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked bacon, shredded chicken, or even lobster for a luxurious twist.
- Incorporate Veggies: Broccoli, peas, or sautéed spinach make it a complete meal.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
- Try Different Cheeses: Experiment with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or blue cheese for unique flavors.
Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own – the possibilities are as endless as your imagination!
Homemade mac and cheese is more than just a meal; it's a nostalgic experience that brings comfort and joy. Whether you're recreating childhood memories or discovering it anew, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. So grab your apron, fire up the stove, and get ready to savor every cheesy bite!
PrintHomemade Mac And Cheese Recipe
This homemade mac and cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food, featuring creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta. Perfect for family meals, easy to prepare, and loaded with rich cheesy flavor!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop and Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups whole milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese, mixing until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika if desired.
- Combine the cheese sauce with cooked macaroni, stirring until fully coated.
- Serve hot, or transfer to a baking dish and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes for a crispy top.
Notes
- You can add breadcrumbs on top before baking for extra crunch.
- Substitute cheddar with other cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 460mg
Leave a Reply