Description
Homemade Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and bubbling with cheesy goodness. This stovetop version is simple, flavorful, and made with a classic cheddar cheese sauce that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy weekends at home.
Ingredients
8 oz elbow macaroni
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp paprika
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden.
3. Slowly whisk in milk. Stir constantly until the mixture thickens, about 4–5 minutes.
4. Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Stir in the shredded cheeses gradually until smooth.
5. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat completely. Serve hot.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for best texture and melting.
To make it extra indulgent, top with breadcrumbs and broil until golden.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat with a splash of milk.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, pasta, comfort food