Creamy Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe

by Recipeboxbrunchhub Veg

Mac and cheese is comfort food in its purest form. Creamy, cheesy, and wonderfully satisfying, it is an American classic that works equally well as a quick weeknight dinner or a holiday side dish.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • Salt and black pepper

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni until just tender, following the package instructions.

Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for about a minute.

Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously. Cook until the mixture begins to thicken.

Reduce the heat and add the shredded cheeses. Stir until completely melted and smooth.

Season with garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper.

Combine Everything

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is coated.

You can serve it immediately for an extra creamy texture, or transfer it to a baking dish, top with additional cheese, and bake until golden and bubbling.

Make It Your Own

Add crispy bacon, pulled chicken, roasted broccoli, jalapeños, or breadcrumbs for a different twist.

For a richer holiday version, combine several cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Gruyère.

Homemade mac and cheese is proof that a few simple ingredients can create something incredibly comforting.