If you’ve ever craved that irresistibly creamy, cheesy comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Homemade Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. Not only is it a classic dish beloved by folks of all ages, but it also brings rich textures and sharp, melty cheddar flavors together in perfect harmony. From the smooth cheese sauce to the golden, crispy breadcrumb topping, every bite bursts with nostalgic goodness while being easy enough for a weeknight victory in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple, pantry-friendly essentials that work together like a dream to create that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy textures. Each element plays a special role, from the sharpness of the cheddar to the crispy panko breadcrumbs that crown the dish.
- Elbow macaroni (2 1/4 cups dry): The classic pasta choice that holds sauce beautifully and offers that familiar chew.
- Butter (8 tablespoons + 3 tablespoons): Provides richness and helps create a silky roux and crispy topping.
- Flour (1/2 cup): Thicken the cheese sauce so it clings perfectly to each noodle.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon or to taste): Enhances all the flavors to keep the dish balanced.
- Pepper & onion powder (to taste): Subtly boost the savory depth of the cheese sauce.
- Milk (1 1/2 cups): Adds creaminess and helps develop luscious texture.
- Extra sharp cheddar cheese (2 cups): The star ingredient for bold, melty, tangy flavor; white cheddar is especially tasty and visually appealing.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): For that irresistible crunchy topping that contrasts with creamy macaroni beneath.
How to Make Homemade Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions—usually about 11 to 13 minutes until perfectly tender but still firm to the bite. Once cooked, drain thoroughly to avoid sogginess. This step lays the foundation for your dish, so get the pasta just right to hold the rich sauce later.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
While the macaroni is cooking, melt 8 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour, salt, pepper, and onion powder, whisking constantly to form a roux. This thickener cooks for about one minute, losing any raw flour taste and becoming fragrant. Slowly add the milk in small amounts while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes until you see the sauce thicken and coat the back of a spoon beautifully. Remove from heat and stir in the grated extra sharp cheddar cheese until it melts into a glossy, stretchy sauce that is nothing short of magical.
Step 3: Combine Macaroni and Cheese Sauce
Pour the creamy cheese sauce into the pot with the drained macaroni — or vice versa if your sauce pan is bigger — and gently stir to coat every piece of pasta in that luscious cheese mixture. The even coverage ensures that every forkful will have that satisfying cheesy punch that makes homemade macaroni and cheese so beloved.
Step 4: Prepare the Crunchy Topping
Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl using the microwave. Stir in the panko breadcrumbs until they absorb the butter and become evenly moist. This step is crucial for turning ordinary breadcrumbs into that golden, crunchy topping that elevates this dish from simple to downright addictive.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish and spread out evenly. Sprinkle the buttered panko breadcrumbs generously on top. Place the dish into a preheated oven at 350°F and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the breadcrumbs are beautifully browned and crisp. This baking time allows the flavors to marry and gives you that perfect contrast between creamy and crunchy textures.
How to Serve Homemade Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A little extra flair goes a long way with this Homemade Macaroni and Cheese Recipe. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top for a hit of color and a subtle herbal note. For those who love a little heat, a dash of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes can add a pleasant kick that complements the sharp cheddar without overpowering it.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple green vegetables like steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans to balance the richness. A crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, cutting through the creamy, cheesy texture. For heartier meals, grilled chicken or pan-seared pork chops make excellent companions.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress at a gathering? Serve your Homemade Macaroni and Cheese Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming single-serve presentation. You can also mix in cooked bacon bits or roasted jalapeños before baking to add layers of flavor and texture. For a fun twist, swirl in some caramelized onions or swap half the cheddar for smoked gouda for a smoky richness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Homemade Macaroni and Cheese Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen and develop even more, making it a delicious next-day meal. Just be sure to cool it completely before sealing to preserve freshness.
Freezing
To freeze, place the cooled mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container, topping fresh with breadcrumbs or hold off on the topping until reheating. Frozen mac and cheese stays good for up to 2 months without losing its creamy texture thanks to this recipe’s carefully balanced sauce.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes covered with foil to prevent drying out. For quicker reheating, microwave individual portions on medium heat, stirring occasionally to restore that smooth creaminess and prevent hot spots. Adding a splash of milk before reheating helps revive the sauce to its original loveliness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this Homemade Macaroni and Cheese Recipe?
Absolutely! While extra sharp cheddar brings that classic tang and richness, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a creamy mozzarella. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will vary slightly, making the dish uniquely yours.
Is it necessary to bake the mac and cheese or can I just cook it on the stove?
While you can enjoy stovetop mac and cheese, baking adds that wonderful crunchy topping and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re in a hurry, stovetop works fine, but the baked version really takes this Homemade Macaroni and Cheese Recipe to the next level.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, swap the all-purpose flour in the roux for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Also, ensure your breadcrumbs are gluten-free or use crushed gluten-free crackers instead for the topping.
Can I add vegetables or proteins to this mac and cheese?
Definitely! Adding cooked vegetables like peas, roasted tomatoes, or steamed spinach adds nutrition and color. Pre-cooked proteins like chicken, bacon, or sausage are also fantastic additions, making this dish a complete meal with all your favorite flavors in one bowl.
Why does my cheese sauce sometimes turn grainy, and how can I avoid it?
Grainy sauce usually happens when cheese overheats or is added too quickly. To avoid it, remove the roux and milk sauce from heat before incorporating the cheese gradually, stirring gently until melted. Using freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded (which often contains anti-caking agents) also helps ensure smoothness.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is a true keeper, whether you want a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering. Its creamy texture, sharp cheese flavor, and crunchy topping bring joy and comfort with every bite. Give it a try and you might just find yourself making it over and over again—trust me, it’s worth every glorious mouthful!
Print
Homemade Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic Homemade Macaroni and Cheese recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce, topped with a crispy panko breadcrumb crust. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, it makes a comforting and satisfying meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 2 & 1/4 cups dry elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 8 tablespoons butter (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or more to taste)
- Pepper (to taste)
- Onion powder (to taste)
- 1 & 1/2 cups milk
- 2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese, grated (white cheddar used)
Topping
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- Additional shredded cheese for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions, approximately 11-13 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 8 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in the flour, salt, pepper, and onion powder to form a roux. Continue whisking continuously for about 1 minute to cook the flour. Gradually add the milk, a little at a time, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Once all the milk is incorporated, cook the sauce for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce or pour the sauce over the pasta in the larger pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly. Transfer the mixture into a 2-quart casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the panko bread crumbs and stir to coat them thoroughly. Spread the buttered bread crumbs evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese. Optionally, sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top for extra cheesiness.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350ºF (175ºC). Bake the casserole for 15-20 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crisp, and the cheese sauce is bubbling around the edges. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or other spices like paprika or mustard powder for extra flavor.
- Use whole milk or 2% milk for a creamier sauce; low-fat milk will yield a thinner sauce.
- The panko breadcrumb topping can be substituted with regular breadcrumbs if panko is unavailable.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour for the roux and substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Make sure to whisk constantly when making the roux and adding milk to prevent lumps in the cheese sauce.
- You may prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate before baking; add a few extra minutes to baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
