Description
This ultra-creamy Homemade Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food made with just 5 main ingredients. Rich, cheesy, and easy to whip up in 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, picky eaters, or whenever you need a little edible hug. Say goodbye to the boxed stuff this stovetop classic is budget-friendly, family-approved, and 100% delicious.
Ingredients
- Pasta
- 8 oz. macaroni (or shells)
- Cheese Sauce
- 3 Tbsp butter
- 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp onion powder
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ tsp hot sauce (optional, for flavor)
- ½ tsp salt
- 8 oz. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.Make the Roux
In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and onion powder. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a light golden color.Add Milk & Thicken
Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens slightly and just begins to bubble, about 5 minutes.Flavor the Sauce
Stir in the salt and optional hot sauce. Reduce the heat to low.Melt the Cheese
Add the shredded cheddar a handful at a time, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
Combine with Pasta
Return the cooked macaroni to the pot. Stir until the pasta is fully coated with the cheesy sauce. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra creaminess, try using half-and-half instead of milk.
- Sharp cheddar gives the boldest flavor, but feel free to mix cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack.
- Make it a baked version by topping with breadcrumbs and broiling for 3–5 minutes.
- Gluten-free pasta and flour alternatives can be used for a gluten-free version.
- Add-ins like cooked bacon, peas, or roasted broccoli work great for variety.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: homemade mac & cheese, mac and cheese recipe, homemade shells and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese