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Homemade mac and cheese made with elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, milk, butter, and baked to golden perfection

Mac and Cheese Ingredients

Discover the ultimate homemade baked mac and cheese recipe packed with creamy cheddar, simple ingredients, and irresistible flavor. Perfect for cozy dinners and family gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk warm
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp mustard powder optional
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs optional topping
  • 1 tbsp melted butter for breadcrumbs

Equipment

  • Baking dish
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Cook macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
  2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and whisk for 1 minute until smooth.
  3. Slowly whisk in warm milk and cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat, then stir in 1 ½ cups of cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder until melted and smooth.
  5. Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked pasta. Pour into a greased baking dish.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining cheese and breadcrumb topping over the macaroni.
  7. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbling. Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, mix in cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or a dash of hot sauce. Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt and texture.