Go Back
Macaroni and cheese

Macaroni and cheese

This Classic Macaroni and Cheese recipe is comfort food at its finest. Creamy, cheesy, and baked to perfection, it's a delightful dish that serves as a perfect side or main. This easy recipe will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 People
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot
  • 1 Colander
  • 1 3-quart baking dish
  • 1 Medium saucepan
  • 1 Whisk
  • 1 Spoon or spatula
  • 1 set Measuring cups and spoons
  • 1 Oven mitts

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni About 2 cups.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk Preferably whole.
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika Optional.
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs Optional for topping.

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain in a colander and set aside.
  • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  • Gradually pour in the milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens and slightly bubbles, around 5-7 minutes.
  • Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
  • Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring until all the pasta is coated.
  • Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 3-quart baking dish. If desired, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy topping.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Feel free to mix in additional ingredients like cooked bacon, broccoli, or tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
For a creamier texture, you can add an extra cup of cheese or a dollop of cream cheese to the sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.