Name: Creamy Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb elbow macaroni; 4 tbsp butter; 1/4 cup flour; 2 cups whole milk; 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp mustard powder

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Introduction

Creamy Mac and Cheese is a classic comfort dish that’s rich, cheesy, and far superior to boxed versions. This recipe delivers a smooth, buttery sauce that clings perfectly to tender elbow macaroni, making it a family favorite in just 30 minutes.

A small white bowl filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, showing soft, shell-shaped pasta fully coated in smooth, light orange cheese sauce with a few tiny black pepper specks. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and in the blurry background, another similar bowl and a fork are partially visible. The focus is close up on the bowl of macaroni and cheese, highlighting the creamy texture and color contrast. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb elbow macaroni
4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 cups whole milk
4 tbsp butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Garlic powder, to taste
Mustard powder, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is lightly golden.
Step 3: Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook the sauce, stirring often, until it thickens and becomes smooth.
Step 4: Reduce heat to low and slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese in batches, stirring after each addition until fully melted and creamy.
Step 5: Stir in garlic powder and mustard powder to taste. Then, fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, mixing until well coated.
Step 6: Serve immediately for the creamiest texture, or transfer to a baking dish to bake with extra toppings if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a handful of cooked bacon bits.
Substitute sharp cheddar with a mix of cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a different taste and texture.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary preferences.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with creamy mac and cheese made of small shell pasta covered in smooth, light orange cheese sauce with specks of black pepper, placed on a white marbled surface. Another white bowl with the same dish is softly blurred in the background, and a silver fork is seen on the right side. The scene shows a warm, comfort food vibe with a clean and simple setting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Gruyère for varied flavor profiles and textures. Just make sure the cheese melts well to keep the sauce smooth.

How do I prevent the sauce from becoming grainy?

Make sure to add the cheese gradually over low heat and stir constantly. Avoid boiling the cheese sauce after adding cheese, as high heat can cause it to separate and become grainy.