Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that never fails to please! It’s creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying, making it a go-to dish for family dinners, potlucks, or when you’re just craving something indulgent. Plus, this recipe is wonderfully simple, so anyone can whip it up on a busy day!

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Calories: 450
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 800mg

Why Make Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

Making Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe allows you to savor a rich and creamy dish that warms the heart and soul. Unlike store-bought varieties, this recipe is made with wholesome ingredients that you can customize to your taste. You can pack it with protein, extra veggies, or your favorite spices, making it a versatile option that can adapt to any dietary preference or occasion.

How to Make Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe Step by Step

Ingredients

• 4 cups dried macaroni
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup salted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk
• 2 heaping tsp. dry mustard, plus more to taste
• 1 lb. cheese (such as cheddar, jack, and/or fontina), grated
• 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, more to taste
• 1/2 tsp. seasoned salt, plus more to taste
• 1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
• Cayenne pepper, paprika, and/or thyme (optional)

Directions

1. Cook the macaroni until it is very firm, almost too firm to eat right out of the pot. Drain and set aside.
2. Beat the egg in a small bowl. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-low heat and sprinkle in the flour. Whisk constantly and cook the mixture for 5 minutes, making sure it does not burn.
3. Slowly pour in the milk and add the dry mustard while whisking until the mixture is smooth. Cook for 5 minutes until the sauce becomes very thick. Reduce the heat to low.
4. Take 1/4 cup of the hot sauce and slowly pour it into the beaten egg, whisking constantly to prevent the egg from cooking. Whisk the mixture until smooth.
5. Pour the egg mixture back into the pot with the sauce, whisking constantly until fully incorporated and smooth.
6. Stir in the grated cheese until melted and smooth. Add kosher salt, seasoned salt, black pepper, and any optional cayenne, paprika, or thyme. Taste and adjust salt and seasonings as needed to avoid under-salting.
7. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir well to coat evenly.
8. Pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish, top with extra cheese if desired, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
9. Remove from the oven and serve hot.

How to Serve Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

You can serve Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast or pair it with garlic bread for a hearty meal. For an extra flavor boost, try drizzling some hot sauce or adding a side of steamed broccoli for a pop of color and nutrition.

How to Store Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

To store your delicious macaroni and cheese, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. You can also freeze it for up to three months; just be sure to store it in an airtight container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Expert Tips for Cooking Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

• Use a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
• For a creamy texture, consider adding a splash of cream or sour cream to the cheese sauce.
• Don’t skip the step of whisking the egg mixture with the hot sauce; it helps in preventing the egg from scrambling.
• Always taste and adjust seasonings to suit your personal preference.
• Consider adding cooked bacon or vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.

Delicious Variations of Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe

For those who like a kick, try adding chopped jalapeños and pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist. If you prefer a fresh taste, mix in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley. Vegetarians can enjoy a delightful version by incorporating sautéed mushrooms and spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen! The blend of creamy cheese and perfectly cooked pasta makes for a delightful dish that everyone will love. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a delightful side, its flavor and ease of preparation make it a must-try for any home cook.

Classic Macaroni and Cheese

Homemade Classic Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, creamy, cheesy, and satisfying; perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Comfort Food, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pasta

• 4 cups dried macaroni

Cheese Sauce Base

• 1 egg egg Beaten
• 1/4 cup salted butter Melted
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 cups whole milk
• 2 1/2 tsp dry mustard Plus more to taste
• 1 lb cheese (cheddar, jack, and/or fontina) Grated
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt More to taste
• 1/2 tsp seasoned salt Plus more to taste
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• Cayenne pepper, paprika, and/or thyme Optional

Method

 

Preparation

1. Cook the macaroni until it is very firm, almost too firm to eat right out of the pot. Drain and set aside.
2. Beat the egg in a small bowl.

Making the Cheese Sauce

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-low heat and sprinkle in the flour. Whisk constantly and cook the mixture for 5 minutes, making sure it does not burn.
2. Slowly pour in the milk and add the dry mustard while whisking until the mixture is smooth. Cook for 5 minutes until the sauce becomes very thick. Reduce the heat to low.
3. Take 1/4 cup of the hot sauce and slowly pour it into the beaten egg, whisking constantly to prevent the egg from cooking. Whisk the mixture until smooth.
4. Pour the egg mixture back into the pot with the sauce, whisking constantly until fully incorporated and smooth.
5. Stir in the grated cheese until melted and smooth. Add kosher salt, seasoned salt, black pepper, and any optional cayenne, paprika, or thyme. Taste and adjust salt and seasonings as needed.

Combining and Baking

1. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir well to coat evenly.
2. Pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish, top with extra cheese if desired, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
3. Remove from the oven and serve hot.

Notes

Serve with green salad or garlic bread. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to three months.