Easy Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe - Quick & Creamy

This article explains how to make easy homemade mac and cheese using simple ingredients like pasta, cheese, butter, flour, and milk. It covers ingredient options, step-by-step cooking instructions, sauce preparation tips, combining techniques, optional baking for a golden top, and serving suggestions. Key points include using freshly shredded cheese, proper sauce thickening, avoiding common mistakes, and adjusting texture as needed. The recipe supports customization with different cheeses, pastas, and toppings.

Gather Your Ingredients for Easy Mac and Cheese

You need basic pantry items for this easy homemade mac and cheese.

Most ingredients are staples found in any kitchen.

Main Ingredients List

• 8 oz elbow macaroni or small pasta
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar works best)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Additions

• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp mustard powder
• 1/2 cup cream cheese for extra creaminess
• Breadcrumbs for topping

Pasta Options

Use any small pasta shape.

Cheese Choices

Mix cheeses for better flavor.

• Sharp cheddar (base cheese)
• Monterrey Jack (adds meltiness)
• Pepper jack (spicy kick)
• Parmesan (for depth)

Milk Variations

Any milk type works.

• Whole milk (richest)
• 2% or 1% milk (lighter)
• Half-and-half (ultra creamy)
• Plant-based milk (almond, oat)

Keep ingredients at room temperature for easier mixing.

No special tools needed - just one pot and a whisk.

Cook Pasta and Prepare Cheese Sauce Quickly

Boil pasta according to package directions.

Add salt to pasta water for better flavor.

Cook until al dente - tender but firm.

Drain pasta and set aside.

Use same pot for cheese sauce.

Make Cheese Sauce Fast

• Melt 2 tbsp butter in pot
• Whisk in 2 tbsp flour
• Cook 1 minute until bubbly
• Slowly add 1 1/2 cups milk
• Whisk constantly to avoid lumps
• Simmer 3-5 minutes until thick

Add Cheese Properly

• Remove pot from heat
• Add cheese in small batches
• Stir until fully melted
• Season with salt and pepper

Timing Tips

Avoid Common Mistakes

• Don't boil sauce after adding cheese
• Don't use pre-shredded cheese
• Don't walk away while whisking
• Don't add cold milk to hot roux

Sauce should coat back of spoon.

Immediate creamy texture means success.

Combine Pasta and Sauce for Creamy Texture

Add drained pasta to cheese sauce immediately.

Stir constantly to prevent sticking.

Coat every noodle evenly.

Sauce should look creamy and smooth.

Mixing Techniques

• Use wooden spoon or spatula
• Fold pasta into sauce gently
• Keep heat on low setting
• Add pasta water if too thick

Texture Check Points

Fix Common Problems

• Too thick - add milk or pasta water
• Too thin - simmer 1-2 minutes longer
• Lumpy sauce - whisk vigorously
• Dry pasta - add more cheese sauce

Stir in optional mix-ins now.

• Cracked black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Chopped chives
• Diced jalapeños

Taste and adjust seasoning.

Add salt if needed.

Mac and cheese ready to serve hot.

For baked version transfer to casserole dish.

Optional Baking Step for Golden Top

Transfer mac and cheese to greased baking dish.

Sprinkle breadcrumb topping evenly.

Add extra shredded cheese on top.

Bake at 375°F until golden brown.

Prepare Topping Mix

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Pinch of garlic powder

Baking Instructions

Topping Alternatives

• Crushed crackers instead of breadcrumbs
• Extra cheese only - no crumbs
• Buttered flour tortilla strips
• Chopped bacon bits

Casserole dish size matters.

• 8x8 inch for 4 servings
• 9x13 inch for 8 servings
• Deep dish prevents overflow

Cover edges with foil if browning too fast.

Sauce should bubble around edges when done.

Center looks set and creamy.

Rest 5 minutes after baking.

Top will firm up slightly.

Serve Immediately for Best Flavor

Hot mac and cheese tastes best.

Scoop portions while cheese is creamy.

Use serving spoon to prevent clumping.

Plate presentation affects enjoyment.

Serving Suggestions

• Individual bowls for portion control
• Large platter for family style
• Shallow bowls show off golden top
• Pre-warmed dishes keep food hot

Flavor Boosters

Pairing Ideas

• Green salad balances richness
• Steamed broccoli adds nutrition
• Cornbread complements flavors
• Grilled protein makes meal complete

Leftovers reheat well.

• Microwave 1-2 minutes
• Add splash of milk
• Stir halfway through heating
• Don't overcook

Storage extends 3-4 days.

Cover tightly with plastic wrap.

Refrigerate within 2 hours.

Baked version reheats better.