There are few comfort foods that are universally loved, but a good Homemade Macaroni and Cheese has to be one of them. Velvety soft cheese, whether baked or stovetop, with or without a crunchy topping, is a staple in any cook's catalog.
I know your family probably has their recipe for Homemade Macaroni and Cheese or at least you'll have fond memories of eating Kraft or Velveeta as a kid. The reason mac and cheese is a favorite is because it rarely disappoints.
Jump to:
What makes a good sauce
A great mac and cheese always starts with...cheese! I like to use several cheeses (cheddar, monterey jack, parmesan) so that the cheese flavor is robust and well rounded. You can use many different types of cheeses as long as they melt well together. For instance if you want a creamy smooth texture, don't use a crumbly cheese like blue cheese as it won't fully incorporate with the rest of the cheeses.
I usually start my sauce off with making a roux, then adding milk and heavy cream to create a béchamel sauce. I'll then season generously with salt, pepper, paprika and ground mustard (ground mustard also helps the cheese get that golden color).
What type of pasta to use
I decided to use Cavatappi pasta for this mac and cheese. The classic of course is using elbows, but I've also made great mac and cheese with shells, penne or orecchiette. Most shaped pasta varieties will work for a mac and cheese.
The types of pasta I would advise you to avoid are long noodles, seasoned pasta (the flavors may clash) and artisanal pasta such as squid ink pasta.
Alternative pasta such as chickpea or quinoa based pasta will also work for this recipe. You may need to adjust the cooking time for the pasta, but following the box instructions will be the best bet.
Mac and Cheese Variations
There are several different ways that you can use this recipe as a base and add variations.
Ham Mac and Cheese: This version adds in ham, which is a great way to use up leftovers too!
Turkey Pot Pie Mac and Cheese: This rendition combines a mac and cheese base with your favorite pot pie fillings.
Cajun mac and Cheese: This variation brings the spice with the addition of andouille sausage, peppers and cajun seasoning.
Baked Mac and Cheese: This version is baked and topped with a delicious crumb topping. Need we say more?
Ingredients Needed
- 1 Pound Dried Pasta
- ½ Cup Butter
- ½ Cup Flour
- 1 ½ Cups Milk
- 2 Cups Half and Half
- Salt
- Pepper
- 1 Tsp Paprika
- 1 Tsp Ground Mustard
- 2 Cups Sharp Cheddar
- 1 Cup Cheddar Jack
Equipment Needed
- Stock Pot
- Saucepan
- Wooden Spoon
- Whisk
Storage Tips
Fridge: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, either warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Freezer: Place in an airtight container and keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, defrost in the microwave and warm until heated through.
Homemade Macaroni and Cheese
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 Pound Dried Pasta Elbows or Cavatappi preferred
- ½ Cup Butter
- ½ Cup Flour
- 1 ½ Cups Milk
- 2 Cups Half and Half
- Salt
- Pepper
- 1 Tsp Paprika
- 1 Tsp Ground Mustard
- 2 Cups Sharp Cheddar
- 1 Cup Cheddar Jack
Instructions
- Cook pasta per package instructions until al dente. Set aside.
- In a large pot or dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and stir together until fully incorporated. Cook roux until flour is cooked through and it has a slight nutty aroma.
- Slowly add milk to roux mixture, whisking together so that it is smooth and fully blended together. Add is half and half.
- Add in seasonings and salt and pepper to taste.
- Whisk in cheese and stir until fully incorporated. Let simmer for several minutes until sauce thickens.
- Add pasta to the sauce mixture and adjust seasoning as desired. Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please refer to our privacy policy for more information.
Arya's Corner
Because we are in San Francisco, our living space is tiny and our outdoor space is tinier. That doesn't stop Arya from relaxing outside as much as she can!
About Michelle
Hello! I'm Michelle Boulé. I'm a photography nerd, cat mom and all around foodie. Join me in making some of my favorite comfort foods!
Tisha says
Mac N Cheese is my sons favorite thing to eat!! Homemade is always the best!
Amanda says
Mac and cheese is one of my major weaknesses. This recipe looks amazing! Love how saucy and creamy it looks. Can't wait to make this!
Juli says
Mac and cheese has to be one of .y.favoeite foods, and I try new things for a living. Such a classic.
Shanika says
This Mac and Cheese looks so perfect! I love the creaminess and load of cheese! OMG! Pinned this for later!
Danielle Wolter says
There is nothing like a good macaroni and cheese. So delicious and comforting!
Nancy says
I love stove top Mac & Cheese when I want something quickly but my absolute favorite is Baked Mac & Cheese. I love it a little bit more on the sharp side with a crunchy buttered bread crumb topping. Do you have a recipe for that? I misplaced my usual one when I moved.