There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of rich, creamy mac and cheese. It brings back cozy memories of home-cooked meals, chilly evenings, and the irresistible aroma of butter and melted cheese wafting through the kitchen. This Buttery Mac and Cheese recipe takes that nostalgic comfort and turns it up a notch with extra lusciousness and flavor that hugs every bite.

Whether you’re looking for a perfect side dish or a main meal that steals the spotlight, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. The combination of gooey cheese and velvety butter coats tender pasta in a way that feels indulgent yet familiar. It’s the kind of meal that brings people to the table fast and keeps them coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Buttery Mac And Cheese

This isn’t just any mac and cheese. It’s the one that makes everyone ask for the recipe. What makes it special is the richness of real butter blending with a trio of cheeses to create the silkiest, most flavorful sauce. It’s simple to prepare, feeds a hungry bunch, and works equally well as a side for BBQ or a hearty standalone dish. No complicated ingredients, just real comfort made better.

Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes for Buttery Mac and Cheese?

Absolutely. While elbow macaroni is the classic go-to, this dish welcomes variety. Shells, cavatappi, or rotini are great alternatives because they hold onto the creamy sauce in every twist and curve. Choose your favorite or whatever you have on hand—this recipe is all about making comfort food effortless.

Ingredients for the Buttery Mac And Cheese

A few simple ingredients come together to create this buttery, cheesy delight. Each one has a purpose, from thickening the sauce to deepening the flavor.

Elbow macaroni
A traditional favorite that soaks up the cheese sauce perfectly and holds its shape.

Unsalted butter
The star of this dish. It brings a rich, creamy texture and melds all the flavors together.

All-purpose flour
Used to create a roux that thickens the sauce without overpowering the cheese flavor.

Whole milk
Adds creaminess to the sauce and helps everything blend smoothly.

Heavy cream
Makes the mac and cheese even more luxurious and thick.

Sharp cheddar cheese
Provides that classic cheesy bite and deep flavor.

Mozzarella cheese
Adds a gooey stretchiness that makes each bite melt in your mouth.

Parmesan cheese
Enhances the flavor with salty, nutty notes that cut through the richness.

Salt and pepper
To bring out the flavors and balance the creaminess.

How To Make the Buttery Mac And Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture becomes golden and bubbly.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce, about 3 to 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Turn the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, making sure every piece is evenly coated. Serve warm and enjoy the comfort of every bite.

How to Serve and Store Buttery Mac and Cheese

This recipe generously feeds about 6 to 8 people, making it great for families, potlucks, or a cozy night in with leftovers. Serve it straight from the stove for the ultimate creamy texture, or bake it briefly with a breadcrumb topping for added crunch.

To store leftovers, let the mac and cheese cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

What to Serve With Buttery Mac And Cheese?

BBQ Ribs

The smoky, savory richness of ribs is perfectly balanced by the creamy softness of mac and cheese.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

A slightly crispy, bitter side like Brussels sprouts helps cut through the richness beautifully.

Crispy Fried Chicken

Golden, crunchy chicken meets buttery pasta for the ultimate Southern comfort combo.

Tomato Basil Soup

This lighter soup adds brightness and contrast to each bite.

Grilled Sausages

Hearty and flavorful, sausages bring a savory punch that pairs deliciously with cheesy pasta.

Garlic Bread

Sopping up cheesy sauce with crusty garlic bread is never a bad idea.

Coleslaw

Creamy or vinegar-based, coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch.

Baked Beans

A touch of sweetness and smokiness that complements the dish so well.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you can’t get enough of cheesy, comforting pasta dishes, check out these favorites too:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can revisit it whenever a craving strikes.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra buttery? Add bacon? Mix in jalapeños for a kick?

I love seeing how others bring their own flavor twist to this classic. Questions or tips? Share them below so we can all get inspired.

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