Description
Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Homemade Macaroni and Cheese! Creamy, gooey, baked to golden-brown perfection—this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re craving an easy dinner, a cozy lunch, or a holiday side, this recipe delivers. Perfect for family meals, potlucks, or anytime you need rich, cheesy goodness. With sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan all melting into a velvety sauce, this dish hits every satisfying note. Plus, it’s an easy recipe that reheats well—making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep. Quick dinner idea? Check. Cozy food? Check. Cheesy perfection? Triple check.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
1/2 cup extra shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni until al dente, about 1 minute less than package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes until golden.
3. Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens—about 5 minutes.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan until fully melted. Add salt, pepper, and paprika. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until well coated.
6. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese if using.
7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes or until golden and bubbly. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and texture.
For added depth, try mixing in a little smoked gouda or cooked crumbled bacon.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: macaroni and cheese, comfort food, baked mac and cheese, easy dinner, creamy pasta