How To Make Mac and Cheese That’s Creamy and Perfect Every Time

Key Takeaways

• Creamy, cheesy comfort food that’s easy to make
• Total cooking time: Approximately 45 minutes
• Serves 4 people
• Beginner-friendly with step-by-step instructions

What You’ll Need

Kitchen Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Large saucepan
• Colander
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Cheese grater

Ingredients

• Pasta
• 16 oz (1 pound) dried elbow macaroni
• Cheese Blend
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup colby cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Sauce Base
• 4 tbsp butter
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 3 cups cold milk
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• Topping
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation (15 minutes)

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cheese Prep: Grate all cheeses. Pro tip: Room temperature cheese melts more smoothly.
3. Bread Crumb Topping: Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and parmesan. Set aside.

Cooking the Pasta (10 minutes)

1. Boil Macaroni:

• Fill a large pot with water
• Add a pinch of salt
• Bring to a rolling boil
• Add macaroni
• Cook for 8-9 minutes until al dente
• Drain in colander and set aside

Making the Cheese Sauce (15 minutes)

1. Butter Roux:

• Melt 4 tbsp butter in saucepan over medium heat
• Add flour
• Whisk constantly for 2-3 minutes (this removes the raw flour taste)

1. Milk Mixture:

• Slowly pour in cold milk
• Continue whisking to prevent lumps
• Cook for 5-7 minutes until sauce thickens

1. Cheese Time:

• Reduce heat to low
• Add shredded cheeses
• Stir until completely melted
• Season with salt and pepper

Assembling and Baking (15 minutes)

1. Combine:

• Mix cooked macaroni with cheese sauce
• Stir until pasta is evenly coated

1. Baking:

• Transfer to greased 9×13-inch baking dish
• Sprinkle breadcrumb topping evenly
• Bake for 15-20 minutes until top is golden brown

Common Beginner Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t Overcook Pasta: It continues cooking in the oven
• Avoid Pre-Shredded Cheese: It doesn’t melt as smoothly
• Constant Whisking: Prevents lumpy sauce
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Helps create a smoother sauce

Nutritional Notes

• Serving Size: About 1 cup
• Calories: Approximately 450-500 per serving
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 40g

Make-Ahead and Storage

• Refrigerate: Up to 4 days in airtight container
• Freeze: Up to 3 months
• Reheat: Cover with foil, bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes

Variations

• Cauliflower Mac: Replace 1/2 the pasta with cauliflower florets
• Spicy Version: Add 1/2 tsp hot sauce to cheese mixture
• Protein Boost: Mix in cooked bacon or diced chicken

Enjoy your homemade mac and cheese! 🧀🍝