Dinner

Macaroni and Cheese

Name: Macaroni and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon salt; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 4 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons butter; 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

Servings: 6 Total Time: 45 mins Difficulty: Beginner

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Introduction

Macaroni and Cheese, often lovingly called Mac and Cheese, is the ultimate comfort food that has warmed hearts and filled bellies for generations. It is a dish made from tender elbow macaroni pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, often baked until golden and bubbly on top. Whether served as a cozy weeknight meal, a side dish for family gatherings, or even as the star of a holiday table, Mac and Cheese is a classic that never goes out of style.

What makes this dish so universally loved is its versatility—it can be kept simple with just pasta and cheese, or elevated with breadcrumbs, herbs, bacon, or even lobster. It’s a recipe that both children and adults cherish, bringing nostalgia and comfort with every bite.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Macaroni and Cheese because it embodies everything I adore about comfort food—warmth, creaminess, and pure indulgence. There’s something magical about twirling a fork through cheesy pasta, with strands of melted cheese stretching luxuriously. It’s not only satisfying but also deeply nostalgic, reminding me of family dinners, cozy weekends, and special occasions where this dish always had a place at the table.

What makes me love this particular recipe even more is its homemade touch. Unlike boxed versions, making Mac and Cheese from scratch allows you to control the flavors, the richness, and the cheesiness. It’s simple yet special, familiar yet customizable. For me, it’s the kind of recipe that instantly lifts the mood and creates joy.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Macaroni and Cheese is a must-try dish because it is a timeless classic that never disappoints. It’s easy enough for beginners yet customizable enough for seasoned cooks to make their own signature versions. The balance of creamy sauce with tender pasta makes it comforting, while the golden baked topping makes it irresistible.

It’s also incredibly versatile—you can serve it as a quick weekday meal, bring it to potlucks, pair it with roasted meats, or use it as a holiday side. And no matter how it’s served, it always brings smiles and satisfaction. This dish is proof that simple ingredients, when prepared with love, can create something extraordinary.

Recipe Information

Course: Main Dish / Side Dish
Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: ~450 calories per serving (varies with cheese used)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

For the Pasta

1 pound (450 g) elbow macaroni (or any short pasta)
1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Cheese Sauce

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk (warm)
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for flavor)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
3 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded)
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

For the Topping (Optional, for baked version)

1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for crunch)
2 tablespoons butter (melted)
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

Cooking Directions

Step-by-Step Preparation

Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil.
- Add the macaroni and cook until al dente (slightly firm to the bite).
- Drain, toss with a little butter to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth roux (about 1–2 minutes).
- Gradually whisk in the warm milk and cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Allow the sauce to simmer until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).
Add the Cheese
- Remove the sauce from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
Baking Option (for crispy topping)
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan.
- Sprinkle topping evenly over the pasta.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

How to Serve

Serve hot, straight from the pot for a creamy stovetop version.
For gatherings or dinner parties, bake and serve with the crunchy topping.
Pair with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.

Recipe Tips

Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor (pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents).
Don’t overcook pasta—it will continue to cook in the oven.
For a creamier sauce, whisk milk in gradually and avoid boiling it.
Add a pinch of cayenne or paprika for subtle heat.

Variations

Four-Cheese Mac: Use a blend of Gruyère, Gouda, Fontina, and Cheddar.
Spicy Mac: Add jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
Protein Boost: Add cooked bacon, grilled chicken, or even lobster for luxury.
Veggie Mac: Mix in roasted broccoli, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition.
Gluten-Free Mac: Use gluten-free pasta and flour for the roux.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk to revive creaminess.
Freezer: Store baked Mac and Cheese (without topping) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven.

Special Equipment Needed

Large pot for pasta
Saucepan for cheese sauce
Whisk (to avoid lumps in sauce)
Baking dish (for baked version)

Conclusion

Macaroni and Cheese is more than just a dish—it’s a comfort classic that connects generations. Creamy, cheesy, and endlessly customizable, it’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners or holiday spreads. Whether you enjoy it stovetop or baked with a golden crust, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy cravings and bring smiles to the table.

It’s one of those timeless recipes you’ll keep coming back to—because no matter your age or mood, a bowl of Mac and Cheese always feels like home.

Print Recipe

Macaroni and Cheese

Author: Laura Bennett Cuisine: American Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 45 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 450 calories per serving

Description

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente (slightly firm to the bite). Drain, toss with a little butter to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth roux (about 1–2 minutes). Gradually whisk in the warm milk and cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).
Add the Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
Baking Option (for crispy topping) : Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan. Sprinkle topping evenly over the pasta. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.