Description
When you need a cozy, creamy comfort dish that comes together quickly, this Simple Mac and Cheese recipe delivers every time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or when you’re simply craving a big bowl of cheesy goodness. Made from scratch with pantry staples and no processed cheese, it’s rich, velvety, and seriously satisfying.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni (dry)
4 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Slowly add the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the mixture slightly thickens.
4. Lower the heat and stir in shredded cheddar, salt, pepper, and optional paprika. Stir until melted and smooth.
5. Add the cooked macaroni and mix until well coated and creamy. Serve warm.
Notes
Always shred your own cheese for the creamiest results.
Stir continuously while making the roux to avoid lumps.
Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 460mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: quick mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, stovetop mac and cheese