The Best Homemade Best Cheesy Macaroni Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade cheesy macaroni recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and deliciously satisfying. You’ll love it because it’s packed with creamy, cheesy goodness that melts in your mouth.
- It uses simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
- It’s ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- It’s customizable, so you can add your favorite toppings or mix-ins for extra flavor.
Recipe
Homemade Cheesy Macaroni is a classic comfort food that’s simple to make and always satisfying. This recipe delivers creamy, cheesy perfection in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon paprika or cayenne pepper for a slight kick
Instructions:
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and optional paprika or cayenne pepper.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
- Serve warm.
Notes:
- For a creamier texture, add an extra 1/4 cup of milk or cream.
- Substitute cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese blend for variety.
Equipment:
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Colander
Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine:
American
Serving:
Serves 4
Nutrition
This cheesy macaroni recipe is a comforting dish packed with flavor and nutrients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 50 g |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Saturated Fat | 10 g |
| Cholesterol | 35 mg |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade cheesy macaroni with classic side dishes like garlic bread or roasted veggies—they add just the right crunch. A fresh salad with crisp greens and tangy dressing balances the richness, making every bite even better. Trust me, these combos turn a simple meal into something special.
Classic Side Dishes
When you’re serving up a comforting bowl of homemade cheesy macaroni, you’ll want sides that complement its rich, creamy goodness without stealing the spotlight. Personally, I love pairing it with garlic bread—the crusty outside and soft inside soak up every cheesy bite. Roasted vegetables, like broccoli or green beans, add a nice crunch and balance the dish’s richness. A simple coleslaw brings a revitalizing tang that cuts through the creaminess. Sometimes, I’ll serve crispy roasted potatoes or a small cornbread muffin for a cozy, Southern touch. These classics keep the meal hearty and satisfying without overshadowing the star—your cheesy macaroni!
Fresh Salad Options
Fresh salads can be a fantastic way to add brightness and balance to your cheesy macaroni meal. I love pairing my macaroni with a crisp Caesar salad, made with crunchy romaine, homemade croutons, and a tangy dressing. Sometimes, I’ll go for a simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. It’s revitalizing and the perfect contrast to the rich mac and cheese. If I’m feeling adventurous, I’ll toss together a spinach salad with strawberries, almonds, and balsamic glaze. These salads not only add color to the plate but also make the meal feel complete without being heavy.
