Mac and Cheese Classic

Classic Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying. This timeless dish combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich cheese sauce made from a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy milk or cream, baked to perfection or served stovetop for quick indulgence. Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday sides, or potluck gatherings.

Its golden, cheesy topping and smooth, velvety sauce make every bite a nostalgic experience. Easy to make, comforting, and endlessly adaptable, classic mac and cheese is a staple in every kitchen.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s pure comfort in a bowl. The creamy, cheesy sauce clings perfectly to each macaroni noodle, creating that rich, indulgent bite that feels like a warm hug. The stovetop or baked version allows you to customize the cheese flavor, making it sharp, mild, or extra creamy.

It’s easy to prepare yet tastes like a restaurant-quality dish. There’s also something special about the nostalgia this dish brings — reminding us of cozy family dinners, childhood favorites, and simple joys.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

Classic mac and cheese is a must-try because it’s comforting, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly versatile. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, it satisfies cravings for cheesy goodness.

Its creamy texture, combined with the subtle tang of cheddar and the slight crunch of a breadcrumb topping (if baked), creates a perfect harmony of flavors and textures. Every home cook should master this dish — it’s simple, quick, and universally loved.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes (stovetop) or 30 minutes (baked)
• Total Time: 30–40 minutes
• Servings: 4–6
• Course: Main Course or Side Dish
• Cuisine: American Comfort Food
• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225g) elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (for baked version)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (for breadcrumb topping)

Optional: ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder

Cooking Directions

Stovetop Method:

1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to make a roux; cook 1–2 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in milk (and cream if using), cooking until thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat, stir in shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the sauce, stirring to coat. Serve immediately.

Baked Method:

1. Follow steps 1–4 above.
2. Transfer macaroni and cheese to a greased baking dish.
3. Combine breadcrumbs and melted butter, sprinkle over the top.
4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Step 1 – Cook Pasta: Boil macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2 – Make Roux: Melt butter in a saucepan. Stir in flour and cook 1–2 minutes to remove raw taste.
3. Step 3 – Add Milk/Cream: Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Cook until sauce thickens.
4. Step 4 – Add Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheeses until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
5. Step 5 – Combine with Pasta: Stir cooked macaroni into cheese sauce until fully coated.
6. Step 6 – Bake (Optional): Pour into a baking dish, top with buttered breadcrumbs, and bake 20–25 minutes until golden.
7. Step 7 – Serve: Garnish with paprika or fresh herbs, and serve hot.

Save it

How to Serve

Serve hot as a main dish or a side with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or BBQ dishes. Garnish with paprika, parsley, or extra cheese. It pairs wonderfully with fresh salads or crispy garlic bread. For a comforting dinner, enjoy it straight from the skillet or casserole dish.

Recipe Tips

• Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor; mix with mozzarella for creaminess.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; it will finish cooking in the cheese sauce.
• For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or smoked paprika.
• Use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded for smoother melting.
• Stir frequently when making the sauce to prevent lumps.

Variations

1. Bacon Mac and Cheese: Add crispy bacon bits to the cheese sauce.
2. Spicy Mac and Cheese: Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
3. Veggie Mac and Cheese: Add steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach.
4. Four-Cheese Mac and Cheese: Use cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, and Parmesan for a rich flavor.
5. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make a safe version.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave.
• Freezing: Allow mac and cheese to cool completely. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Saucepan for cheese sauce
• Whisk for smooth sauce
• Baking dish (if baking)
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Conclusion

Classic Mac and Cheese is a comforting, cheesy, and timeless dish that belongs in every kitchen. Whether served stovetop for a quick weeknight dinner or baked with a crispy breadcrumb topping for special occasions, it’s loved by kids and adults alike. Its creamy, cheesy sauce, tender pasta, and customizable options make it a versatile comfort food. Easy to prepare, endlessly adaptable, and utterly delicious, this recipe is a must-have for anyone craving a warm, cheesy indulgence.

Mac and Cheese Classic

Classic Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food — creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying. This timeless dish combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich cheese sauce made from a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy milk or cream, baked to perfection or served stovetop for quick indulgence.

Author: Stella Parker Cuisine: American Course: Pasta

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 20 mins Total Time 30 mins Difficulty: Beginner Servings: 6

Ingredients

Servings

• 8 ounces (225g)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• ¼ teaspoon mustard powder (optional)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (for baked version)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (for breadcrumb topping)

Optional: ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

1. Step 1 – Cook Pasta: Boil macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2 – Make Roux: Melt butter in a saucepan. Stir in flour and cook 1–2 minutes to remove raw taste.
3. Step 3 – Add Milk/Cream: Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Cook until sauce thickens.
4. Step 4 – Add Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheeses until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
5. Step 5 – Combine with Pasta: Stir cooked macaroni into cheese sauce until fully coated.
6. Step 6 – Bake (Optional): Pour into a baking dish, top with buttered breadcrumbs, and bake 20–25 minutes until golden.
7. Step 7 – Serve: Garnish with paprika or fresh herbs, and serve hot.

Keywords: Mac and Cheese (Classic)