Description
Craving comfort food fast? This Simple Mac and Cheese is the ultimate easy dinner idea. Ready in under 30 minutes, it delivers rich, creamy, cheesy flavor with minimal ingredients — perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or satisfying last-minute cravings. Whether you’re after quick lunch food ideas, a crowd-pleasing side dish, or a cozy main meal, this easy recipe is your new go-to for all things cheesy. Perfect for both kids and adults, this quick and satisfying option ticks all the boxes: pantry-friendly, affordable, and indulgently delicious.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Pinch ground mustard
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni until al dente (about 7–8 minutes), then drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a smooth, golden roux.
3. Slowly pour in warm milk and cream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 4–5 minutes until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar, adding gradually. Mix until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
5. Add cooked macaroni to the sauce. Stir to coat all pasta evenly. If too thick, loosen with a splash of warm milk.
6. Serve hot immediately or top with extra cheese and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest, creamiest texture.
Always stir in cheese off heat to prevent graininess.
Warm your milk before adding to the roux for a lump-free sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, easy dinner, cheesy pasta, comfort food