The Ultimate Homemade Mac and Cheese

The Ultimate Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe - It's Brill!

By Chef BakerJune 11, 2025

Table of Contents

Alright, let's dive headfirst into the cheesy goodness of a homemade macaroni and cheese recipe ! Honestly, is there anything more comforting than a big bowl of mac?

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy a trip down memory lane? This homemade macaroni and cheese recipe is seriously lush. Think creamy, extra cheddar , and utterly addictive.

Brief Overview

Mac and cheese, a dish with roots in europe, has become a beloved comfort food, especially in the us. this simple mac n cheese recipe is ready in under an hour.

It serves 6-8 hungry souls.

Main Benefits

This super cheesy mac and cheese is pure happiness in a bowl. It's perfect for a casual family dinner. What makes this recipe special? The from scratch easy mac and cheese sauce , of course!

Right, let's talk ingredients. For this recipe mac and cheese we're keeping it relatively simple. You know, no need for fancy pants stuff here.

Okay, love! Let's dive into the nitty gritty of this homemade macaroni and cheese recipe . Don't worry, I'll keep it dead simple. We're making super cheesy mac and cheese together, yeah?

Ingredients & Equipment: The Arsenal

The Ultimate Homemade Mac and Cheese presentation

Honestly, you probably have most of this stuff already. Let's break it down.

Main Ingredients: The Stars of the Show

Right then, here's what you need. Remember quality matters, especially with the cheese.

Elbow macaroni: 1 pound (450g) . Don't overcook it, al dente is key! Trust me.
Unsalted butter: 6 tablespoons (85g) . Go for proper butter, not that margarine stuff.
All-purpose flour: 1/4 cup (30g) . Plain and simple.
Whole milk: 3 cups (720ml) . Full fat is best for creaminess.
Salt: 1/2 teaspoon . Seasoning is crucial!
Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon . Freshly ground if you're feeling fancy.
Ground nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon . Just a hint, it adds something special.
Shredded sharp cheddar cheese: 4 cups (400g) . The better the cheddar, the better the mac and cheese recipe cheddar . Grate it yourself for the best melt!
Grated Parmesan cheese: 1 cup (100g) . Adds a lovely salty kick.

Oh my gosh, I forgot the breadcrumb topping!

Melted unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons (30g)
Panko breadcrumbs: 1 cup (50g) . For that lovely crunch.
Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/4 cup (25g) .

Seasoning Notes: The Flavor Boosters

This is where you can really make it your own simple mac n cheese recipe .

Essential spice combo: Salt, pepper, and that touch of nutmeg.
Flavor enhancers: Garlic powder or onion powder can add a nice savory depth. Think about it.
Quick sub options: If you're out of nutmeg, a pinch of mace will do.

Equipment Needed: The Must Haves

Keep it simple, yeah?

Large pot: For the macaroni, obviously.
Large saucepan: For the sauce. Non-stick is your friend.
9x13 inch baking dish: A classic.
Whisk: To avoid lumpy sauce. Seriously, don't skip this.
Cheese grater: Because pre-shredded is a no-no for amazing easy mac and cheese sauce .

Common household alternatives? If you don't have a whisk, a fork will do in a pinch. No baking dish? Use an oven safe casserole dish.

Honestly, that's it! no need to overcomplicate things for this recipe mac and cheese masterpiece. let's get cooking! maybe you're feeling like making a mac and cheese recipe for one , then just downsize the recipe.

How to make mac n cheese is easier than you think. we're making a proper mccheese recipe from scratch.

Right then, let's get cracking on a Mac and Cheese recipe worthy of the telly! It's proper brilliant, this one.

The Ultimate Homemade Mac and Cheese (So Good, It'll Make You Sing!)

Ah, mac and cheese . a true comfort food classic. think cheddar, parmesan, a hint of nutmeg, and a breadcrumb topping.

This recipe elevates the humble classic with a creamy, cheesy sauce made from scratch and baked to golden perfection. honestly, it's easier than you think.

I've made it for dinner parties and even just for myself on a rainy tuesday.

Prep Steps: Mise en Place Magic

First things first: essential mise en place . get everything chopped, measured, and ready to go. this makes life so much easier.

Grab your 450g elbow macaroni, cheeses, milk. for time saving organization tips , use small bowls to pre-portion the spices and cheese.

It feels like you're on a proper cooking show. and a quick safety reminder : mind those hot pans!

step-by-step Process: How To Make Mac N Cheese Like a Pro

Okay, here's the magic. This simple Mac N Cheese recipe is something special!

Preheat your oven to 375° F ( 190° C) . Grease your 9x13 inch baking dish. Don't skip this bit!
Cook the macaroni to al dente. Usually about 8- 10 minutes . Soggy pasta is the enemy. Drain it well.
Melt 6 tablespoons (85g) of butter in a saucepan. Whisk in 1/4 cup (30g) of flour. Cook for 1- 2 minutes .
Gradually whisk in 3 cups (720ml) of milk. Keep stirring. Simmer until thickened, about 5- 7 minutes .
Remove from the heat. Stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg. I use 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg.
Add 4 cups (400g) of cheddar and 1 cup (100g) of parmesan. Stir until melted and smooth. This is your easy Mac and Cheese sauce .
Mix the cooked macaroni with the super cheesy Mac and cheese sauce. Stir well.
Pour into the baking dish. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs. Bake for 20- 25 minutes , until golden and bubbly.

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Mac Game

Here's where we turn this up to 11! For a short cut, consider using the same recipe as Mac and Cheese recipe for one , just scaled up.

Expert Technique: Don't use pre-shredded cheese. It doesn't melt as nicely. Trust me on this one.
Common Mistake: Overcooking the pasta. It will get all mushy in the sauce.
make-ahead Option: Assemble everything, but don't bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Honestly, this Mccheese recipe is a winner. It's creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting. You'll be making it again and again. I hope you enjoy this recipe Mac and Cheese .

Right then, let's dive into some extra bits to make your homemade macaroni and cheese recipe even more smashing! this isn't just any mac and cheese recipe cheddar , this is your mac and cheese recipe for one (or twelve!), so let's tailor it.

Recipe Notes: Ace Your Mac!

Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro

Honestly, presentation matters, doesn't it? a dollop of fresh pesto on top looks fancy. try scattering some chopped parsley for a pop of colour.

Complement your super cheesy mac and cheese with a fresh, crunchy salad. a light, dry white wine pairs beautifully. think sauvignon blanc.

Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh

Leftover recipe mac and cheese ? wrap it well. then pop it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, add a splash of milk. this keeps it creamy. freezing isn't ideal, but doable. thaw completely before reheating.

To avoid a watery mess, add fresh cheese before reheating.

Variations: Get Creative!

Want a healthier twist? use whole wheat pasta. swap half the cheese for cauliflower puree. boom, sneaky veggies! for a simple mac n cheese recipe boost, try adding roasted vegetables.

Broccoli, peppers, or mushrooms work wonders. fancy a mccheese recipe copycat? add a dash of mustard and processed cheese slices.

Nutrition Basics: Knowledge is Power

Each serving packs protein. it also delivers calcium. but, let's be honest, it's not a health food. it is soul food! portion control is key.

Especially with such a easy mac and cheese sauce . you know?

Right then, you've got the gist. this easy mac cheese recipes are all about having fun and making something delicious.

So get in the kitchen, have a laugh, and create some cracking how to make mac n cheese . now go on, you've got this! you’ll create a simple mac n cheese recipe that's all yours.

Super Cheesy Mac and Cheese Recipe: Ultimate Comfort!

Frequently Asked Questions

Help! My cheese sauce is lumpy. What did I do wrong?

Lumpy cheese sauce is usually down to the roux not being properly incorporated with the milk, or the heat being too high. Ensure you whisk the flour and butter together thoroughly and cook it for a minute or two before gradually adding warm milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.

If it still happens, try using an immersion blender to smooth it out, or strain the sauce through a fine mesh sieve. Don't worry, even Jamie Oliver has sauce fails sometimes!

Can I make this homemade macaroni and cheese recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the mac and cheese in the baking dish, cover it tightly with cling film, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while the oven preheats, then bake as directed, you may need to add 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s piping hot.

Think of it like a proper good Sunday roast prep early, enjoy later!

What are some good cheese variations for this homemade macaroni and cheese recipe? I fancy a change!

Oh, you're talking my language! While cheddar and parmesan are classics, feel free to experiment. Gruyere adds a nutty, sophisticated flavour, Gouda brings a creamy sweetness, or even a bit of smoked mozzarella for that extra oomph.

A bit of mature cheddar is excellent to add depth, however don't add too much as it can become overpowering and greasy. Just remember to stick to cheeses that melt well for the best results. A cheese pull worthy of TikTok, that's what we're after!

How should I store leftover mac and cheese?

Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave it (add a splash of milk to prevent it from drying out), or bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

You could also try frying it up into little fritters for a quirky snack, now that's what I call cooking!

Is there anything I can add to make my homemade macaroni and cheese recipe a bit healthier?

Certainly! You can sneak in some finely chopped or pureed vegetables like cauliflower or butternut squash into the cheese sauce for extra nutrients without significantly altering the flavor. Using whole wheat pasta instead of regular macaroni will also increase the fiber content.

Also, using lower fat cheese will help cut down on the calories and fat, however beware that this can effect the overall creaminess.