Comfort Food Mac And Cheese

Name: Comfort Food Mac And Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 2 cups milk; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Meals

I absolutely love indulging in a warm, creamy bowl of mac and cheese, especially on cozy nights. There's something special about this classic comfort food that brings back childhood memories. I enjoy experimenting with different cheeses and toppings to elevate the flavor and texture. Whether it’s a movie marathon or a casual dinner with friends, I find that this mac and cheese recipe never fails to impress. So, let’s dive into a creamy, cheesy adventure that will surely warm your heart!

Created by

Summer Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-24T08:43:07.235Z

When I first made mac and cheese from scratch, I was amazed at how simple it was to create such a beloved dish. I started with the classic combination of cheddar and mozzarella, which provided that rich, gooey texture. I also learned that incorporating a bit of cream not only enhances the creaminess but also makes each bite feel luxurious. You can easily add your favorite spices to personalize it, making it a unique dish every time.

Over the years, I have had the opportunity to experiment with various cheeses, and I discovered that a blend of aged cheddar and Gruyère gives a wonderful depth of flavor. Also, I recommend baking it with a breadcrumb topping for a delicious contrast that adds texture. It’s a dish that truly lets me express my creativity while still being deeply comforting.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy, cheesy goodness that warms your soul
Customizable with your favorite toppings and spices
Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions

Perfecting the Cheese Sauce

Creating a creamy cheese sauce is the heart of this mac and cheese. The roux, made from butter and flour, serves as a thickening agent, providing a smooth base. Make sure to cook it just until it’s bubbling for about a minute before adding milk, as this helps to eliminate the raw flour taste. If it clumps, whisk vigorously until you achieve a glossy texture. The trick to a silky sauce is to add the milk gradually while whisking constantly.

When incorporating cheese, opt for freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties. The latter often contains anti-caking agents that can disrupt the melting process, resulting in a grainy texture. Stir in the cheeses off the heat to prevent them from separating. As they melt, the sauce will evolve into a luscious mixture, richly flavored and invitingly aromatic.

Customizing Your Dish

One of the premier aspects of mac and cheese is its versatility. Feel free to experiment with a variety of cheeses; gouda, fontina, or pepper jack can add unique flavors and creaminess. For an extra savory kick, consider stirring in crumbled bacon or cooked vegetables like spinach or roasted broccoli into the pasta before combining it with the cheese sauce. This not only enhances the dish but also adds nutritional value.

If you're looking for a healthier option, try whole wheat elbow macaroni, or even gluten-free alternatives made from chickpeas or quinoa. Additionally, to reduce the fat content, you can use low-fat milk and cheese but be aware that the end result may slightly change in texture. No matter the substitutions you make, sticking to the cooking times in the recipe will ensure a consistently delicious outcome.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 cups milk
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Make sure to gather everything before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the perfect mac and cheese:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute. Gradually add the milk while whisking until smooth and thickened.

Add Cheeses and Seasoning

Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and mozzarella until fully melted. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

Combine and Bake (Optional)

Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. If desired, transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.

Enjoy your delicious homemade mac and cheese!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, you can add cooked bacon or diced jalapeños into the cheese mixture before baking.

Make-Ahead and Storing Tips

This mac and cheese can easily become a make-ahead favorite. Prepare the cheese sauce and pasta ahead of time, then store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, combine the pasta with the sauce and bake, as recommended, or simply reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until warmed through. If the sauce seems too thick after refrigeration, a splash of milk will revive its creamy consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the mac and cheese before baking. Assemble the dish in a freezer-safe container, and it can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake as directed. This method prevents the pasta from becoming mushy and maintains its delightful texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with mac and cheese is a separation of the cheese sauce. If this happens, it's often due to overheating or using pre-shredded cheese. To fix this, return the sauce to low heat and whisk vigorously, adding a bit of milk to bring it back together. Also, ensure the burner isn't too high during cooking to maintain a gentle simmer rather than a rolling boil.

If you find your mac and cheese is too dry after baking, it might need more liquid in the cheese sauce or a longer bake time with a cover. A sprinkle of milk or cream over the top before final baking can help maintain moisture, ensuring every bite is as creamy as intended. Keeping an eye on the edges of the cheese for a golden-brown finish also helps achieve that perfect baked texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Yes, whole wheat and gluten-free pasta work well! Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance without baking. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

→ What can I do if the cheese sauce is too thick?

If the cheese sauce is too thick, simply stir in a little more milk until you reach the desired creaminess.