Macaroni and Cheese

Name: Macaroni and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cups milk; 1/4 cup butter; 2 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon paprika

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the ultimate comfort food with this creamy and cheesy Macaroni and Cheese recipe. Perfectly cooked pasta is enveloped in a rich blend of cheeses, creating a velvety sauce that is sure to please everyone at the table. This dish is simple to prepare and makes an excellent side or main course for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.

Created by

Piper Andrews

Last updated on 2025-11-28T09:26:16.447Z

Comfort Food at Its Best

Macaroni and cheese has stood the test of time as a favorite comfort food, beloved by both kids and adults. With its creamy texture and rich flavor profile, this dish instantly evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Each bite captures the essence of home cooking, making it a perfect choice for family gatherings, celebrations, or simple weeknight dinners. Whether it's a special occasion or just a treat for yourself, this macaroni and cheese recipe is sure to bring joy to your table.

The versatility of macaroni and cheese is truly remarkable. You can enjoy it as a stand-alone dish or elevate it as a side to accompany your favorite proteins. From grilled steaks to roasted vegetables, this creamy dish complements a wide variety of meals. Customizing it with additional ingredients, such as breadcrumbs, herbs, or different cheese options, allows you to tailor it to your preferences and those of your guests, enhancing its appeal even further.

A Simple Recipe for Everyone

This macaroni and cheese recipe is designed with simplicity in mind. Ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs, its step-by-step instructions make it easy to follow and replicate. You don't need any complicated techniques or specialty equipment; just basic kitchen tools will suffice. The straightforward process makes it possible to create a delicious meal in under an hour, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen.

Moreover, the ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store, which means you can whip up this dish whenever a craving strikes. The combination of sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese creates a depth of flavor that's hard to resist. With pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you can transform a simple box of macaroni into a dish that rivals gourmet options.

Perfect for Any Occasion

One of the best aspects of macaroni and cheese is its adaptability to various occasions. Whether you're hosting a casual family dinner or preparing a potluck dish for a gathering, this recipe is always a hit. Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it a fantastic crowd-pleaser, ensuring that it will be a favorite at any gathering. Plus, it holds well, making it suitable for leftovers or meal prep.

You can also make this dish a bit more festive by introducing unique toppings or variations. Consider adding cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or even a hint of truffle oil for an elegant twist. The base recipe remains the same, but these simple additions can take your macaroni and cheese to new heights, impressing your guests and enhancing your dining experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cups milk
1/4 cup butter
2 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for about 1 minute, then gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens.

Combine Cheese and Pasta

Remove the pot from heat. Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix well to combine.

Serve

Serve immediately, and enjoy your homemade macaroni and cheese!

Tips for Perfecting Your Dish

To achieve the ultimate creamy macaroni and cheese, ensure that your cheese is freshly shredded. Pre-packaged shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce's consistency. Shredding cheese directly from the block ensures a smoother blend and richer flavor.

When cooking the pasta, aim for al dente. This means it should be cooked until it's firm to the bite. The pasta will absorb some of the cheese sauce while baking, so starting with slightly undercooked pasta prevents it from becoming mushy.

Serving Suggestions

Macaroni and cheese pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes, elevating your meal. A refreshing green salad, seasoned with a zesty vinaigrette, offers a nice contrast to the rich cheese sauce. Alternatively, serve it alongside roasted vegetables to add a healthy element to your plate.

For a more indulgent experience, consider serving macaroni and cheese with a hearty protein, such as fried chicken or grilled sausages. The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover macaroni and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. Adding a splash of milk before reheating helps restore its creamy texture, making it taste freshly made.

You can also freeze portions of macaroni and cheese for longer storage. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before warming it up, ensuring that it stays delicious and creamy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses, such as mozzarella or gouda.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce and pasta in advance, then combine them and heat when ready to serve.