Description
This Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is the ultimate comfort food with creamy cheddar cheese, a buttery roux sauce, and tender elbow macaroni. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck, it’s easy, cheesy, and unforgettable. Keywords: classic mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, homemade macaroni and cheese, American comfort food.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture is bubbling and golden but not browned.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk to the roux, making sure to keep stirring to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Lower the heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Add the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir well until every piece of pasta is coated. Let it sit on low heat for another minute or two to ensure everything is warm and combined.
6. Serve hot right out of the pot or pour into a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for a golden crust.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting.
A touch of mustard powder or garlic can add depth of flavor.
Double the batch for larger families or parties—it reheats well!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 65mg