Name: Homemade Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz (225 g) macaroni, uncooked; 3 tablespoons butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (30 g); 2 cups whole milk (480 ml); 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce; 2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (about 250 g)

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This homemade mac and cheese is everything comfort food should be: rich, creamy, and packed with bold cheesy flavor. Made on the stovetop with a simple roux-based sauce and sharp cheddar cheese, it comes together quickly with pantry staples and delivers a luxuriously smooth texture that stays creamy even after reheating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is incredibly easy to make and perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks. It uses simple, affordable ingredients while delivering restaurant-quality results. The sauce is extra cheesy, well-seasoned, and perfectly coats every piece of pasta. It’s ready in under 30 minutes, customizable with add-ins, and works beautifully as a main dish or a side.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz (225 g) macaroni, uncooked
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (30 g)
2 cups whole milk (480 ml)
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon hot sauce
2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded (about 250 g)

Directions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the macaroni according to package directions, about 7 to 8 minutes, until just tender. Drain well and set aside.

In a medium pot, add the butter and flour over medium heat. Whisk continuously until the butter melts and the mixture begins to bubble. Continue cooking and whisking for 1 minute to form a smooth roux.

Slowly add the milk a few tablespoons at a time, whisking well after each addition and allowing it to thicken before adding more. Once all the milk is added, continue cooking and whisking until the sauce gently simmers and thickens to the consistency of heavy cream, about 5 minutes.

Turn off the heat and season the sauce with onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and hot sauce. Whisk until fully combined.

Add the shredded cheddar cheese one handful at a time, whisking until each addition is completely melted before adding more. If needed, briefly return the pot to very low heat, but do not let the sauce boil.

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated. Let it sit for a minute or two to thicken slightly, then serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 generous servings.
Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes, making the total time around 25 minutes.

Variations

You can easily customize this mac and cheese to suit your taste. Swap part of the cheddar with cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, Parmesan, cream cheese, or smoked gouda for different flavor profiles. Stir in cooked chicken, tuna, or chickpeas for added protein. Vegetables such as steamed broccoli, spinach, peas, or roasted peppers also work beautifully. For extra heat, add chili flakes or a dash of spicy sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The sauce will thicken as it sits, which is normal. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, short pasta shapes like shells, cavatappi, or elbows work best because they hold the sauce well.

Why should I shred my own cheese?

Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly and creates a creamier sauce without graininess.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and replace the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend suitable for roux.

Is the hot sauce spicy?

No, it enhances flavor without adding noticeable heat. You can adjust or omit it if desired.

Can I use low-fat milk?

Whole milk gives the creamiest result, but lower-fat milk can be used with slightly less richness.

How do I prevent grainy cheese sauce?

Avoid boiling the sauce after adding cheese and melt it gently over low heat.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can make it ahead and reheat gently with extra milk.

Can I bake this mac and cheese?

Yes, transfer to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.

How do I make it extra cheesy?

Add an extra 1/2 cup of shredded cheese or mix in a creamier cheese like mozzarella.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Yes, it’s mild, creamy, and very kid-friendly.

Conclusion

This homemade mac and cheese is a timeless classic that delivers unbeatable comfort and flavor. With its creamy texture, bold cheesy taste, and simple preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether enjoyed on its own or customized with your favorite add-ins, it’s guaranteed to satisfy every craving.