Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe rich aroma of melting cheese wafting through the kitchen is enough to ignite nostalgia and comfort. I’ve often found myself facing the age-old dilemma of what to whip up for dinner—something quick yet satisfying that can win over even the pickiest eaters. That’s where this Simple Mac and Cheese comes in. This creamy bowl of goodness is a delightful upgrade from any boxed version, and with just a handful of ingredients, it’s a budget-friendly lifesaver for busy weeknights. Not only is it super easy to prepare, but it’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for both family meals and gatherings. Ready to bring that nostalgia back to your dinner table? Let’s dive into this delectable recipe that promises to be a hit with everyone! Why is this Mac and Cheese the Best? Simplicity: With just a few pantry staples, making this dish in no time is a breeze! Creamy Texture: The combination of cheddar and parmesan creates an irresistibly smooth sauce that coats every noodle beautifully. Kid-Friendly: This recipe is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it the ultimate family meal. Versatile: Feel free to customize by adding veggies or spices, just like in our Crock Pot Cheeseburger Soup for a unique twist! Budget-Friendly: This mac and cheese relies on affordable ingredients, making it an economical choice, perfect for any weeknight dinner. Quick Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the ideal solution for those hectic evenings without sacrificing flavor. Simple Mac and Cheese Ingredients For the Pasta • Elbow Macaroni – This is your pasta base; cook according to package instructions for the best texture. For the Cheese Sauce • Cheddar Cheese – Offers the main cheesy flavor; using sharp cheddar amplifies the deliciousness. • Parmesan Cheese – Provides depth to the sauce; fresh grated cheese ensures optimal melting. • Milk – Essential for creaminess; whole milk is perfect, but nut milk can be a fabulous substitute. • Butter – Adds richness to your sauce; choose between salted or unsalted based on your taste. • Flour – Works as a thickener for your cheese sauce; all-purpose flour is the best choice here. Flavor Enhancers • Mustard – Introduces a slight tang; yellow mustard is preferred, but Dijon gives an interesting flavor twist. • Seasonings – A blend of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder rounds out the flavor profile beautifully. This simple mac and cheese dish will delight your taste buds, leaving you craving more! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Simple Creamy Mac and Cheese Step 1: Cook the Pasta Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water over high heat. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once al dente, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside, taking care not to rinse it so the sauce adheres better. Step 2: Melt the Butter In a medium saucepan over low heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter, swirling it occasionally to prevent browning. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Watch closely as the butter transforms from solid to liquid, ensuring it’s melted without sizzling. This creates a rich base for your creamy cheese sauce, setting the stage for the delicious Simple Mac and Cheese. Step 3: Create the Roux Sprinkle in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour gradually, whisking continuously for about 1-2 minutes. The mixture should appear smooth and slightly thickened, with a pale golden color. This roux will help thicken your cheese sauce, allowing for a luscious texture that beautifully coats the macaroni in the final step. Step 4: Add the Milk Slowly pour in 2 cups of whole milk while whisking steadily to combine with the roux. Increase the heat to medium and continue stirring for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce begins to simmer and thickens. You’ll know it’s ready when small bubbles appear at the surface, giving it a creamy consistency perfect for your Simple Mac and Cheese. Step 5: Season the Sauce Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in your selected seasoning mix of salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and 1 tablespoon of mustard. Blend thoroughly for about 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This step provides a delightful depth to your cheese sauce, ensuring a well-rounded taste in each bite of mac and cheese. Step 6: Incorporate the Cheese Gently fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup of fresh grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce, stirring until fully melted and incorporated—about 2-3 minutes. You’ll see the sauce become creamier and richly cheesy, which is the essence of your Simple Creamy Mac and Cheese. Keep the heat off to prevent the sauce from separating. Step 7: Combine with Pasta With your cheese sauce ready, add the drained elbow macaroni to the saucepan. Stir gently but thoroughly for about 1-2 minutes, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated evenly in the luscious cheese sauce. This is where the magic happens, as the simple ingredients come together to create a rich and satisfying dish. Step 8: Serve and Enjoy Transfer the creamy mac and cheese to serving bowls immediately for the best experience. The comforting aroma and creamy texture should invite everyone to dig in without delay. This Simple Creamy Mac and Cheese is sure to be a hit at your dinner table, warming hearts and bellies alike! Simple Mac and Cheese Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative with this recipe, enhancing flavors and textures to suit your taste buds! Different Pasta Shapes: Swap elbow macaroni for shells, cavatappi, or even whole grain noodles for added texture and nutrition. Each shape brings a unique experience, making every bite a little adventure! Vegetable Boost: Stir in cooked broccoli, spinach, or peas for a nutritious twist that adds color and flavor. It’s a delightful way to sneak in some veggies, making this dish not only comforting but also healthier! Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to create a flavorful explosion. Spicing up your mac and cheese can transform this classic into a zesty favorite everyone will enjoy. Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a distinct flavor profile. Each cheese brings its own character, making every version of macaroni and cheese unique. Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme or basil into the cheese sauce for a burst of aromatic flavor. The fragrance will elevate the dish and give you that gourmet feel right at home. Crunchy Topping: Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top before baking for a crunchy contrast. For an added touch, consider mixing in some parmesan or herbs with the breadcrumbs! Creamy Add-Ins: Blend in cream cheese or sour cream for additional creaminess. It not only enhances the smooth texture but also lends a rich flavor that makes you wish for seconds! Sweet & Savory: For an unexpected twist, a hint of maple syrup or honey can add a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the cheesy goodness. Give it a try for a charming touch, reminiscent of our delicious Honey Cheesecake Salted for dessert! With these variations, you can tailor your Simple Mac and Cheese just how you like it! Each option adds a special flair, making this dish even more enjoyable for family dinners or friendly gatherings. How to Store and Freeze Simple Mac and Cheese Fridge: Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk for ideal creaminess. Freezer: To freeze, allow mac and cheese to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, defrost in the fridge overnight, then reheat on low heat, adding a bit of milk to restore the creamy texture. Airtight Guidance: For best results, ensure the container is airtight to prevent freezer burn and maintain flavor, keeping your Simple Mac and Cheese delicious! Expert Tips for Simple Mac and Cheese Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and avoids a gritty texture; it’s essential for that creamy mac and cheese experience. Don’t Rush the Roux: Take your time when making the roux; a well-cooked roux helps create a smooth, thick sauce. Adjust the Milk: If your mac and cheese cools down and becomes too thick, add a splash of milk while reheating for a creamy consistency. Season to Taste: Always taste your cheese sauce before mixing in the pasta; adjust salt and spices as needed to enhance the flavor. Experiment with Add-ins: Consider stirring in cooked vegetables or proteins for added nutrition and to custom tailor your simple mac and cheese. What to Serve with Simple Creamy Mac and Cheese The comforting allure of creamy macaroni and cheese creates endless possibilities for a delightful meal experience. Grilled Chicken: Juicy grilled chicken adds a savory contrast, balancing the richness of the mac and cheese while enhancing the meal’s protein content. Steamed Broccoli: A perfect side for both crunch and nutrition, steamed broccoli offers a fresh, bright note that complements the creamy texture beautifully. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread provides a wonderful crunch and is perfect for scooping up any leftover cheese sauce. Caesar Salad: A fresh, tangy Caesar salad not only lightens the meal but also adds crisp, crunchy elements that brighten every bite of mac and cheese. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add color and flavor, making the plate more vibrant and nourishing. Apple Pie: For dessert, a slice of warm apple pie with vanilla ice cream creates the perfect contrast of flavors—sweet, warm, and buttery—to end your meal on a high note. Each of these pairings not only complements the flavors of your Simple Mac and Cheese but also creates a memorable dining experience that will keep everyone coming back for more! Make Ahead Options These Simple Mac and Cheese are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the elbow macaroni and prepare the cheese sauce up to 24 hours in advance, then store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This way, the pasta won’t become mushy, and the sauce retains its creamy consistency. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the cheese sauce over low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed, and then fold in the cooked macaroni. This makes for a quick weeknight dinner that’s just as delicious as when freshly made, saving you precious time without sacrificing flavor! Simple Mac and Cheese Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best cheddar cheese? Absolutely! When selecting cheddar cheese for your Simple Mac and Cheese, aim for sharp cheddar. Its robust flavor enhances the overall taste and creates a delightful contrast with the creaminess of the sauce. Be sure to look for blocks of cheese rather than pre-shredded, as freshly grated cheese melts better and provides a smoother texture! How long does homemade mac and cheese last in the fridge? Very! You can store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to reheat it on the stovetop and add a splash of milk to restore that creamy texture you love. Oh, and don’t forget to stir often as it heats! Can I freeze my Simple Mac and Cheese? Of course! To freeze, cool your mac and cheese completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost it in the fridge overnight, then reheat on low heat, adding some milk to bring back its creamy goodness! What should I do if my cheese sauce is too thick? No worries! If your cheese sauce turns out thicker than you’d like, simply add a little extra milk to the sauce gradually while stirring. Heat it over low flame until you achieve your desired creaminess. Just be careful not to overheat after adding cheese, as that could cause separation. Is there a safe way to adjust flavors for kids? Absolutely! You can customize the flavor to suit your kids’ tastes by starting with smaller amounts of seasonings, then tasting the sauce before adding the macaroni. You can also omit or reduce mustard and spicy elements, ensuring your little ones can enjoy this Simple Mac and Cheese without overwhelming flavors. Are there any common allergies to consider with this recipe? Very! Since this mac and cheese contains dairy and gluten from the butter, milk, and elbow macaroni, it may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or gluten allergies. You can substitute whole milk with lactose-free or nut milk and choose gluten-free pasta alternatives to make it more inclusive for everyone at your table! Creamy Simple Mac and Cheese Everyone Will Love No ratings yet This Simple Mac and Cheese is a rich, creamy dish that brings comfort to the table and is perfect for the whole family. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 400 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 oz Elbow Macaroni cook according to package instructionsFor the Cheese Sauce1 cup Cheddar Cheese shredded, sharp for more flavor½ cup Parmesan Cheese fresh grated2 cups Milk whole milk preferred4 tbsp Butter salted or unsalted based on preference¼ cup Flour all-purpose, for thickeningFlavor Enhancers1 tbsp Mustard yellow or Dijonto taste Seasonings salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder Equipment Medium saucepanlarge potcolander Method Step-by-Step InstructionsBoil a large pot of salted water. Cook elbow macaroni for 8-10 minutes, drain and set aside.Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over low heat for 2-3 minutes.Add ¼ cup of flour, whisking for 1-2 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened.Pour in 2 cups of milk while whisking. Increase heat to medium until the sauce simmers and thickens for 3-5 minutes.Remove from heat and stir in the seasoning mix including 1 tablespoon of mustard.Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted.Add drained elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently for 1-2 minutes.Transfer to serving bowls and enjoy! Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 15gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 300mgIron: 1mg NotesFor best results, use freshly grated cheese and don't rush the roux for a smooth sauce. Adjust seasonings as needed and consider adding veggies or proteins for variation. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
