Cheap Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe - Under $2 Per Serving

Learn how to make homemade mac and cheese for under $2 per serving using basic pantry staples. This guide covers budget ingredients, a 15-minute stovetop method, baked versions with crispy toppings, tips for achieving the creamiest cheese sauce, and easy add-ins to stretch your meal further.

Budget ingredients you need for cheap mac and cheese

You can make cheap homemade mac and cheese for under $2 per serving using basic pantry staples.

Core ingredients with estimated costs

Buy macaroni in bulk to save more. Store brands work just as well as name brands.

Best budget cheeses for melting

• Sharp cheddar - strong flavor means you need less
• Mild cheddar - smooth melt, kid-friendly
• Monterey Jack - great melt, mild taste
• American cheese - ultra creamy sauce

Optional seasonings from your pantry

• Salt and black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Dry mustard - adds depth without heat
• Paprika or cayenne for kick

Use what you already have. No need for specialty ingredients.

Money-saving shopping tips

• Buy block cheese on sale and freeze extra
• Purchase store brand pasta and dairy
• Check clearance sections for cheese markdowns
• Buy larger containers of milk when on sale

A single batch feeds 4-6 people for under $6 total. That's roughly $1-$1.50 per serving with real cheese and quality ingredients.

For an even simpler version see this 3 ingredient mac and cheese recipe that skips the roux entirely.

Quick stovetop method ready in 15 minutes

Stovetop mac and cheese is the fastest way to get dinner on the table. No baking required.

What you need

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• 4 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2-3 cups whole milk
• 2-3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step instructions

• Boil pasta in salted water until just shy of al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Melt butter in the same pot over medium heat.
• Whisk in flour. Cook 1 minute to remove raw flour taste.
• Slowly pour in milk while whisking constantly.
• Simmer 3-5 minutes until sauce thickens.
• Remove from heat. Stir in cheese gradually until melted.
• Add pasta back to pot. Stir to coat.
• Season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

No-roux shortcut method

Skip the flour and butter step. Whisk flour into cold milk before adding to pot. Simmer until thickened. Add cheese. Done.

For an even simpler approach try this simple homemade mac and cheese recipe with minimal prep.

Common mistakes to avoid

Total time: 15 minutes from start to finish. Faster than a boxed version with way better flavor.

Baked version with crispy golden topping

Baked mac and cheese adds a crispy breadcrumb crust that makes it special enough for holidays and potlucks.

Ingredients for the topping

• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 3 tbsp melted butter
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 tsp paprika for color

Mix all topping ingredients in a bowl. Sprinkle over assembled mac and cheese before baking.

Baking instructions

• Prepare stovetop mac and cheese as directed above.
• Pour into a greased 9x13 baking dish.
• Top with extra shredded cheese if desired.
• Spread breadcrumb mixture evenly over top.
• Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes.
• Broil last 1-2 minutes for extra golden color.

Baking time and temperature guide

Make-ahead tips

• Assemble completely. Cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours.
• Add 10 extra minutes to bake time if cold from fridge.
• Freeze unbaked for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking.

For more baked variations check out this baked mac and cheese recipe with panko for extra crunch.

Want something creamier? This baked mac and cheese recipe creamy version stays moist even after baking.

No breadcrumbs alternative

Skip the topping. Just add extra cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a cheesy crust instead.

Tips for the creamiest cheese sauce every time

Grainy sauce ruins mac and cheese. Follow these rules for silky smooth results every time.

Essential rules for smooth sauce

• Grate cheese fresh from a block - pre-shredded contains anti-caking starch
• Add cheese off the heat - high heat causes separation
• Add cheese gradually - let each batch melt before adding more
• Use room temperature cheese - melts more evenly
• Stir constantly while adding dairy - prevents lumps

Best cheeses for creamy sauce

Combine cheeses for best results. Sharp cheddar for flavor. American or cream cheese for creaminess.

Dairy choices that affect creaminess

• Whole milk - Standard choice, good balance
• Half and half - Richer, creamier result
• Heavy cream - Ultra rich, use sparingly
• Evaporated milk - Concentrated, helps emulsify

Try this homemade mac and cheese with cream cheese recipe for extra silky sauce.

How to fix a broken sauce

For restaurant-style creaminess see this best homemade creamy mac and cheese recipe.

Easy add-ins to stretch your mac and cheese further

Transform basic mac and cheese into a complete meal with simple add-ins. Stretch portions and add nutrition without much extra cost.

Proteins that add bulk and flavor

• Bacon - cook until crispy, crumble on top or mix in
• Ham - dice leftover ham, perfect for leftovers
• Chicken - shredded rotisserie chicken saves time
• Ground beef - brown and drain before mixing in
• Tuna - makes a quick tuna casserole style dish
• Hot dogs - budget option kids love, slice and add

Try this baked mac and cheese recipe with bacon for a hearty twist.

Vegetables that blend right in

Budget-friendly flavor boosters

• Hot sauce - adds depth without much heat
• Mustard powder - enhances cheese flavor
• Garlic powder - savory boost
• Paprika - smoky depth and color
• Nutmeg - pinch adds warmth

Sauces that change the game

• Buffalo sauce - makes buffalo chicken mac
• Salsa - creates a southwestern vibe
• Pesto - adds herbal richness
• BBQ sauce - pairs well with pulled pork or chicken

For a spicy kick try this baked jalapeno mac and cheese recipe.

How much to add

Start with 1-2 cups of add-ins per pound of pasta. Adjust based on preference. Too many add-ins dilute the cheese flavor.