Description
This easy mac and cheese recipe is creamy, cheesy, and perfect for any occasion. It’s a simple, no-fuss dish that uses pantry staples and is ready in just 20 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving comfort food, this mac and cheese will hit the spot every time.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- :
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups dry)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your choice)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- :
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and golden, creating a roux.
- Add the milk: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cheese: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with a pinch of paprika if desired. For extra flavor, you can add a sprinkle of extra cheese on top.
Notes
- :
- For a creamier mac and cheese, you can use half-and-half instead of milk.
- Feel free to add some cooked bacon bits or sautéed vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli for added texture and flavor.
- If you like your mac and cheese a bit crispy on top, transfer it to a baking dish, sprinkle with extra cheese, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 55mg