Introduction

Homemade Mac and Cheese is a comforting classic that combines creamy, cheesy sauce with tender pasta baked to perfection. This recipe blends sharp cheddar varieties for a rich flavor that’s sure to satisfy any cheese lover’s cravings. Perfect as a main dish or side, it’s a timeless favorite for all ages.

A close-up of creamy macaroni and cheese in a white rectangular baking dish, showing one scoop lifted by a spoon. The dish is filled with soft elbow macaroni covered in a thick, gooey cheese sauce that blends pale yellow and light orange shades, creating a rich, melted texture. The background shows a soft beige cloth with a blurred white marbled surface underneath. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

16 ounces short pasta shapes, such as elbow macaroni or shells

8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, about 2 cups, divided

8 ounces sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded, about 2 cups, divided

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

¼ cup all-purpose flour

2 cups milk, low fat or whole

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon paprika

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375° F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and return the pasta to the pot.

Step 3: In a bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar and sharp white cheddar cheeses.

Step 4: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook, whisking constantly, until lightly browned, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 5: Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to cook, whisking often, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 6: Stir in the salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Then, gradually add half of the cheese mixture, stirring until melted and smooth.

Step 7: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and stir to combine evenly.

Step 8: Transfer half of the pasta mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle one third of the remaining cheese over it. Add the rest of the pasta, then top with the remaining cheese.

Step 9: Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, until hot, bubbly, and the cheese is melted on top.

Tips & Variations

For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese into the cheese sauce before baking.

Try adding a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a subtle warm flavor twist.

Mix in cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or steamed broccoli for added texture and taste.

Use a blend of different cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella to vary the flavor profile.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, short pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, shells, or cavatappi work best as they hold the cheese sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

Use shredded cheese instead of pre-sliced, add it gradually off the heat, and stir gently. Also, avoid overheating the cheese sauce once the cheese is added to keep it smooth.