Easy Recipe Planner
🍽️

Homemade Mac and Cheese

Enjoy restaurant-quality american dinner with elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, and gruyere cheese as the star. Simple techniques yield impressive results that look and taste restaurant-quality. The perfect addition to your regular dinner rotation.

Total Time
45min
Servings
6
Difficulty
Easy

Time Breakdown

Prep:15min
Cook:30min
Cuisine:
American
Meal Type:
Dinner

Ingredients (6 servings)

  • 1 poundelbow macaroni
  • 3 cupssharp cheddar cheese
    shredded
  • 1 cupgruyere cheese
    shredded
  • 4 tablespoonsbutter
  • 1/4 cupall-purpose flour
  • 3 cupswhole milk
  • 1/2 cupheavy cream
  • 1 teaspoondijon mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoongarlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoonpaprika
  • 1 teaspoonsalt
  • 1/2 teaspoonblack pepper
  • 1 cuppanko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cupparmesan cheese
    grated

Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease 9x13 baking dish.

    3min
  2. 2

    Cook macaroni according to package directions, drain.

    8min
  3. 3

    Melt butter in large saucepan over medium heat.

    2min
  4. 4

    Whisk in flour, cook 1 minute to make roux.

    1min
  5. 5

    Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth.

    3min
  6. 6

    Cook until thickened, 5 minutes, whisking constantly.

    5min
  7. 7

    Remove from heat, add mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

    1min
  8. 8

    Stir in cheddar and gruyere until melted.

    2min
  9. 9

    Combine pasta and cheese sauce in baking dish.

    2min
  10. 10

    Top with breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan and paprika.

    2min
  11. 11

    Bake 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

    20min

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about making Homemade Mac and Cheese

How long does it take to make Homemade Mac and Cheese?

This Homemade Mac and Cheese recipe takes approximately 45 minutes total, with 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cooking time.

How many servings does this Homemade Mac and Cheese recipe make?

This recipe serves 6 people. You can easily scale the ingredients up or down to serve more or fewer people.

Is this Homemade Mac and Cheese recipe beginner-friendly?

Yes! This Homemade Mac and Cheese recipe is rated as easy and perfect for beginners. The instructions are straightforward and don't require advanced cooking techniques.

What makes this Homemade Mac and Cheese authentic american?

This Homemade Mac and Cheese recipe uses traditional american ingredients and cooking methods to deliver authentic flavors that represent the essence of american cuisine.

Can I make Homemade Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

Yes, Homemade Mac and Cheese can be prepared ahead of time. You can prep ingredients in advance or make the full recipe and store it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

How should I store leftover Homemade Mac and Cheese?

Store leftover Homemade Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months. Always reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I substitute ingredients in this Homemade Mac and Cheese recipe?

Yes, many ingredients in Homemade Mac and Cheese can be substituted based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Common substitutions work well, but may slightly alter the final taste and texture.

What should I serve with Homemade Mac and Cheese?

Homemade Mac and Cheese pairs well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or your favorite grain for a complete and balanced meal.

What kitchen equipment do I need to make Homemade Mac and Cheese?

To make Homemade Mac and Cheese, you'll need basic kitchen equipment like mixing bowls, measuring cups, and standard cookware. No special equipment is required unless specified in the recipe instructions.

More American Recipes

Discover more delicious recipes perfect for your meal planning

🍽️
Easy

Mac and Cheese

Transform simple elbow macaroni, butter, and all-purpose flour into a aromatic american dinner. Elbow macaroni becomes tender and juicy and incredibly flavorful. This aromatic dish becomes a family favorite after just one bite.

30min
6
American
🍽️
Easy

One-Pot Pasta

Enjoy restaurant-quality american dinner with penne pasta, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth as the star. Traditional american spices enhance the natural flavors beautifully. The kind of dish that brings wholesome nutrition and smiles to your table.

25min
6
American
🍽️
Easy

Grilled Cheese

Discover the perfect blend of bread, cheddar cheese, and butter in this zesty american dinner. Traditional american spices enhance the natural flavors beautifully. This zesty dish becomes a family favorite after just one bite.

13min
2
American
🍽️
Easy

Tofu Classic Bake

Celebrate american cuisine with this aromatic dish showcasing tofu, zucchini, and bell pepper. The prepared technique develops deep, aromatic flavors throughout. Great for casual dining, whether you're new to cooking or experienced.

50min
8
American
🍽️
Easy

Tofu Zesty Roast Skillet

Savor robust tofu, zucchini, and bell pepper in this american dinner that brings balanced nutrition and taste. The american approach to tofu, zucchini, and bell pepper brings out flavors you'll crave again. A go-to recipe you'll return to time and again for its reliability.

35min
6
American
🍽️
Easy

Creamy Tomato Soup

Elevate your lunch with butter, yellow onion, and garlic cloves prepared in authentic american style. Each bite delivers balanced nutrition and taste with perfectly balanced seasonings. Great for entertaining guests, whether you're new to cooking or experienced.

35min
4
American
View All Recipes