Easy Macaroni and Cheese:
A From Scratch Recipe
Hands down one of the kids' favorite foods. And for good reason! I mean, I know mac'n'cheese is a classic for kids, but I'm right there with them! Who wouldn't like these melty, cheesy noodles?
I’ve tried multiple homemade macaroni and cheese recipes over the years, but this one is by far the best. It’s creamy, doesn’t develop that weird grittiness after sitting out, and I always have the ingredients on hand. The next time you need to fix your comfort food craving, try this!!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients
3 tablespoons + 1 tablespoon butter
4 tablespoons flour
2 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
Set a large pot of water to boil. Cook noodles according to directions. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the noodles and stir to prevent sticking.
Heat butter over medium-low in small saucepan. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes.
Slowly add half a cup of the milk, whisking until it is fully incorporated and thickened.
Add the rest of the milk, whisking occasionally for 3 minutes. Add salt and cheese.
After 3 minutes or when cheese is melted slightly but not fully incorporated, remove from heat. Let sit for five minutes.
Pour sauce over the noodles and stir to help the cheese be evenly distributed. Serve immediately.
Recipe Notes:
Add a couple tablespoons of plain yogurt or cream cheese to the mac and cheese to make it extra creamy. And you are always welcome to add even more cheese!
Be sure to shred the cheese yourself. Pre-shredded cheese has an additive that prevents it from sticking together…but gooey cheese is kinda the whole point for macaroni…
Sometimes we like to throw in some ham or sausage and roasted broccoli and call it supper. Everyone loves it!
Dry mustard is a common ingredient in macaroni and cheese. Our family is not a fan, but feel free to add it when you stir the salt into the cheese sauce. Garlic salt, cayenne, black pepper, and garlic powder are all great add-ins.