Name: Mac Cheese: 7 Simple Steps to Comforting Perfection
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional); 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for baked version)

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Mac Cheese is a delightful dish that never fails to bring comfort and joy to the table. Creamy, cheesy, and endlessly satisfying, this Simple Mac and Cheese is your go-to recipe for quick dinners or comforting sides. In just 25 minutes, you can create a homemade meal that pleases every palate, whether you are cooking for kids or hosting a gathering. Let’s dive into the creamy goodness of this classic American dish!

Why You’ll Love This Mac Cheese

This Mac Cheese is not just delicious; it’s also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:

Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich in flavor: Made with real cheddar for the ultimate cheesy macaroni experience.
Customizable: Create your own mac cheese variations with different cheeses and add-ins.
Kid-friendly: A favorite among children, making it ideal for family dinners.
Perfect for meal prep: Store and reheat for quick meals throughout the week.
Comfort food classic: This creamy mac and cheese has been loved for generations.
Vegetarian option: Suitable for those following a vegetarian diet.

With a comforting blend of flavors, this dish exemplifies why mac and cheese is so popular!

Ingredients for Mac Cheese

Gather these items:

2 cups elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/3 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for baked version)

How to Make Mac Cheese Step-by-Step

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Step 3: Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly. Add the heavy cream. Continue to whisk and cook until the mixture thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 4: Reduce heat to low and add in the cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder.
Step 5: Add the cooked macaroni back to the pot and stir to coat evenly in the cheese sauce.
Step 6: For a baked version, transfer to a buttered baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, then broil for 2–3 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Pro Tips for the Best Mac Cheese

Keep these in mind:

Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother melt.
Experiment with different cheese blends for unique flavors.
For a little kick, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook in the cheese sauce.

Best Ways to Serve Mac Cheese

Here are some serving ideas to complement your mac and cheese:

Top with crispy bacon bits or diced ham for added protein.
Serve alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Pair with grilled veggies or roasted Brussels sprouts for a delicious side dish.

How to Store and Reheat Mac Cheese

If you have leftovers, store your mac cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. You can also add a splash of milk to revive the creaminess!

Frequently Asked Questions About Mac Cheese

What’s the secret to perfect Mac Cheese?

The secret lies in a combination of cooking the pasta al dente and using high-quality cheese for a creamy texture. Incorporating heavy cream makes it extra rich, ensuring your mac and cheese is truly comforting.

Can I make Mac Cheese ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mac cheese in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven for that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Mac Cheese?

To avoid a grainy texture, always use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded. Also, keep an eye on the heat when melting the cheese; too high can cause it to separate.

Variations of Mac Cheese You Can Try

Looking to mix things up? Here are a few variations:

Vegan Mac Cheese: Swap the cheese for a nut-based cheese alternative and use plant-based milk.
Gluten-Free Mac Cheese: Use gluten-free pasta and flour to create the roux.
Instant Pot Mac Cheese: Cook everything in your Instant Pot for a quick and easy meal.
Mac and Cheese for Kids: Add pureed veggies to sneak in extra nutrition without sacrificing taste.

Delicious Mac Cheese served with a side salad

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making Creamy Potato Soup for a comforting meal. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, don’t miss our Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze.

For more information on the benefits of using high-quality cheese, you can visit Cheese Science.

Mac Cheese: 7 Simple Steps to Comforting Perfection

Author: basmer
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Creamy, cheesy, and endlessly comforting—this Simple Mac and Cheese is your new go-to for easy dinners or satisfying sides.

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Gradually add the milk while whisking constantly. Add the heavy cream. Continue to whisk and cook until the mixture thickens, about 3–4 minutes.
Reduce heat to low and add in the cheddar cheese a handful at a time, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional garlic powder.
Add the cooked macaroni back to the pot and stir to coat evenly in the cheese sauce.
For a baked version, transfer to a buttered baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, then broil for 2–3 minutes until golden and bubbly.