You know how sometimes dinner doesn’t go the way you planned, that was me last week, because I had this whole idea of making something fancy, like chicken with a sauce that had too many steps but halfway through the sauce split, the chicken looked sad, and I just wanted to toss everything in the trash, have you ever been there too.

I did what I always do when things fall apart and I pulled out pasta to chose macaroni because Mac and Cheese never lets you down, and it’s like that one friend who doesn’t care if you’re in pajamas or if your kitchen is a mess, you just throw it together, then suddenly, the night feels saved and nothing feels better than a big bowl of Mac and Cheese when everything else goes wrong.

Then something funny happened because my little cousin was sitting at the table waiting, and she asked if it was going to be the cheesy one, and that made me laugh because she didn’t care about the failed chicken or my frustration, and she only wanted the creamy bowl of Mac and Cheese she loves, and honestly, I felt the same way.

Have you ever noticed how the simplest foods are sometimes the best because you don’t need perfect plating or fancy ingredients, and you just need a big spoon and a cozy bowl, that first cheesy bite, and that’s why I love making Mac and Cheese, and that’s also why I think you will too.

Ingredients

• Elbow macaroni pasta (2 cups)
• Butter (4 tablespoons)
• All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons)
• Milk (3 cups)
• Cheddar cheese, shredded (3 cups)
• Salt (1 teaspoon)
• Black pepper (½ teaspoon)
• Bread crumbs (optional, 1 cup if baking)

Ingredients notes

• Elbow macaroni pasta: This is the squiggly pasta shape that holds the cheese sauce really well. You can use other pasta, but elbow is the most fun.
• Butter: Makes the sauce smooth and gives it a yummy flavor.
• All-purpose flour: This helps the sauce get thick so it sticks to the pasta.
• Milk: Use whole milk if you can because it makes the sauce creamy.
• Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a stronger cheesy taste, but mild cheddar is good too. You can mix cheeses like mozzarella or parmesan if you want.
• Salt: Just a little bit makes the flavor pop.
• Black pepper: Adds a tiny kick, but not too spicy.
• Bread crumbs: If you want a crunchy top, sprinkle these when you bake it.

How to make Mac and Cheese?

Step 1: Boil the pasta

Fill a big pot with water, add a little salt, and bring it to a boil. Pour in the elbow macaroni and cook it until it’s soft but not mushy. This takes about 7–8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the butter and flour mix

In another pot, melt the butter over medium heat. When it’s melted, sprinkle in the flour. Stir it quickly so it mixes together like a smooth paste. This is called a roux, and it helps the sauce get thick.

Step 3: Add the milk

Slowly pour in the milk while whisking so there are no lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce starts to look smooth and creamy. This takes a few minutes.

Step 4: Add the cheese

Turn the heat down a little and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce and becomes ooey-gooey. Taste it and add salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Mix the pasta and sauce

Pour the drained pasta into the cheese sauce. Stir gently so every piece of pasta gets covered in cheesy goodness.

Step 6: Bake for crunchy top (optional)

If you like a crunchy top, put the mac and cheese in a baking dish. Sprinkle bread crumbs and a little extra cheese on top. Bake it at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until golden brown.

Kitchen equipment needed

• Big pot for boiling pasta
• Medium pot for sauce
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon
• Strainer
• Baking dish (if baking)
• Oven (if baking)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Storage options!

If you have leftovers, you can put the mac and cheese in a container with a lid and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. To eat again, warm it in the microwave or oven until hot. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just let it thaw before reheating.

Variations!

Mac and cheese can be made in so many ways. You can add cooked chicken or ham to make it meaty. You can mix in veggies like broccoli, peas, or spinach for a healthier version. You can use different cheeses like mozzarella for stretchy bites or parmesan for a salty kick. Some people even add hot sauce or garlic for extra flavor. You can also top it with crushed crackers instead of bread crumbs for fun crunch.

What to enjoy with Mac and Cheese?

First thing I thought about was fried chicken because who doesn’t love that with cheesy pasta, then I thought about roasted veggies because sometimes you want balance, then garlic bread popped into my mind because it’s crunchy and it soaks up every bit of sauce.

Here’s the funny part, because my sweet tooth never stays quiet and I knew exactly what I wanted after dinner, that was my Chocolate Old-Fashioned sour cream donuts, I’m telling you, those two together are pure happiness.

Have you ever just sat there with a bowl of Mac and Cheese, thought about all the little extras that make it even better, because that’s me almost every time. Honestly, I love that this dish can be simple on its own or turn into a full meal with so many tasty sides, and maybe tonight you’ll give one of these combos a try too.

Tips for making the best mac and cheese

To make the best mac and cheese, use good-quality cheese that melts well. Don’t rush the sauce; stir it slowly so it stays creamy. Make sure the pasta is cooked just right, not too soft, or it will get mushy. If baking, always sprinkle a little extra cheese on top for that golden layer. And remember, taste the sauce before mixing with pasta to see if it needs more seasoning.

FAQ

What is mac and cheese made of?

It is made of pasta, cheese, butter, milk, and flour.

What does mac and cheese taste like?

It tastes creamy, cheesy, warm, and a little salty.

Can I use a different pasta?

Yes, you can use shells, penne, or any pasta you like.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, cheeses like mozzarella, parmesan, or gouda also work.

Can I make mac and cheese without baking?

Yes, you can eat it right after mixing the pasta and cheese sauce.

Can I make it spicy?

Yes, add a little hot sauce, chili flakes, or pepper jack cheese.

Can I add meat?

Yes, chicken, bacon, or ham taste really good with mac and cheese.

Can I make it healthier?

Yes, use whole wheat pasta, low-fat milk, and add veggies.

How do I store leftovers?

Put them in a closed container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze mac and cheese?

Yes, freeze it for up to 2 months and reheat when ready.

What makes the top crunchy?

Bread crumbs or crushed crackers make the top crunchy when baked.

Can I make mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, make it, store it in the fridge, then bake or reheat later.