Name: Ultimate 5-Ingredient Homemade Mac & Cheese You'll Love
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz. macaroni (or shells); 3 Tbsp butter; 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour; ½ tsp onion powder; 2 cups whole milk; ½ tsp hot sauce (optional); ½ tsp salt; 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

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There’s just something about a warm bowl of homemade mac & cheese that makes everything feel… okay. Whether it’s been “one of those days” or you just need a little edible hug, this recipe is my go-to reset button. It’s rich, creamy, cheesy (obviously), and way easier than you think like 30-minutes easy.

I started making this when I was trying to get my kids off the boxed stuff (no shade, but whew the sodium!). One night, I grabbed some macaroni, butter, flour, milk, and cheese aka, pantry MVPs, and magic happened. This isn’t just a mac and cheese recipe; it’s comfort food therapy.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Mac & Cheese

Aside from the fact that it tastes like cheesy heaven? It’s:

Super quick on the table in under 30 minutes
Budget-friendly
Customizable (add bacon, veggies, breadcrumbs whatever your heart wants)
Kid-approved and adult-beloved

And if you’ve been hunting for a velvety homemade shells and cheese alternative that doesn’t come in a pouch is it?

Need more easy comfort meals? Check out these baked chicken tenderloin recipes that also come together in a flash.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this soul-soothing bowl:

8 oz. macaroni (or shells for a twist!)
3 Tbsp butter
3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
½ tsp onion powder
2 cups whole milk
½ tsp hot sauce (adds a tiny kick, optional but amazing)
½ tsp salt
8 oz. block of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Pro Tip: Always shred your cheese fresh it melts way creamier than the pre-shredded stuff!

How to Make the Dreamiest Mac & Cheese

1. Cook Your Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your macaroni until al dente (about 7–8 minutes). Drain and set aside.

2. Make That Silky Cheese Sauce
In the same pot (because fewer dishes = more joy), melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and onion powder to make a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes, whisking constantly, until it turns lightly golden.

3. Pour in the Milk
Gradually whisk in the milk, smoothing out any lumps. Keep whisking and let it heat up until it’s just starting to bubble and thickens slightly (about 5 minutes).

4. Season and Sauce It Up
Stir in the salt and hot sauce (if using). Reduce the heat to low and slowly add in your shredded cheddar, one handful at a time. Stir until melted and luscious.

5. Combine
Add the cooked macaroni back into the pot and stir until every little noodle is coated in that dreamy cheese sauce.

6. Serve Immediately
Scoop it into bowls, maybe top with a little extra cheese or crispy breadcrumbs, and let the comfort begin.

Looking for creative sides or ways to sneak in veggies? These creative ways to use frozen carrots in baked goods can pair surprisingly well with creamy mac.

Tips for Next-Level Homemade Shells and Cheese

Use shells if you want those cozy little cheese pockets. They catch sauce like champs.
Want it baked? Pop it in a buttered baking dish, sprinkle more cheese or breadcrumbs on top, and broil for 3–4 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Need protein? Stir in cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, or even leftover ham.
Spice it up with a dash of cayenne or smoked paprika for a grown-up flair.

Need protein? Add leftover rotisserie chicken check out these easy leftover rotisserie chicken recipes for quick meals.

The Backstory: Grandma’s Magic Touch

I’ll never forget standing on a step stool in my grandma’s kitchen, stirring a pot of bubbling cheese sauce while she guided me with gentle, flour-dusted hands. She didn’t measure just knew and somehow, it always came out perfect. This homemade mac and cheese recipe is my modern, foolproof twist on her classic love language. And now, it’s yours, too.

FAQs About Homemade Mac & Cheese

Can I substitute the cheddar?
Absolutely! Gouda, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses work beautifully. Just avoid super-aged or crumbly cheeses they won’t melt as smoothly.

How do I store leftovers?
Pop leftovers into an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to bring the creaminess back to life.

Can I use non-dairy milk?
Yep! Unsweetened almond or oat milk can work. Just know it might slightly change the flavor and texture.

For more comfort food classics, check out this 3-ingredient beef stroganoff a delicious companion for any cozy night in.