Mac and Cheese Recipe

This classic mac and cheese recipe is rich, creamy, and comforting, making it a favorite for quick weeknight dinners and family meals. Made with simple pantry staples, it delivers the perfect balance of tender macaroni and smooth, cheesy sauce. Whether you are searching for the best mac and cheese recipe, an easy mac and cheese recipe, or a simple mac and cheese recipe that can also be baked or customized, this version is reliable, affordable, and full of flavor. Explore similar recipes like Mac and Cheese Recipe for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 (8-ounce) box elbow macaroni
• ¼ cup butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

Directions

• Boil the macaroni by bringing a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil, adding the elbow macaroni, and cooking until al dente, about 8 minutes, then draining well.
• Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat while the pasta cooks, allowing it to melt completely without browning.
• Make the roux by stirring the flour, salt, and black pepper into the melted butter and cooking for about 4 to 5 minutes until smooth and lightly cooked.
• Add the milk slowly while stirring constantly, continuing to cook until the sauce becomes smooth, thickened, and gently bubbling, taking care not to scorch the milk.
• Melt in the cheese by gradually adding the shredded Cheddar cheese and stirring until fully melted and creamy.
• Combine pasta and sauce by folding the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
• Serve hot immediately, or transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (177°C) for about 15 minutes if you prefer a baked mac and cheese recipe with a bubbly top.

Preparation Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4