If you’re anything like me, a comforting bowl of mac and cheese can feel like a warm hug after a long day. It’s simple, it’s satisfying, and it fulfills that cheese craving we’ve all been hit with at some point.
What’s great about mac and cheese is how versatile it is. Just picturing it with barbecue ribs or a crispy garden salad makes my mouth water. It’s perfect alongside anything from grilled meats to fresh vegetables.
Imagine a backyard gathering, children giggling, while adults munch on whatever is sizzling on the grill. What’s that?
Oh yes, it’s a dish of homemade mac and cheese stealing the show amongst the sides, already gobbled up by the little ones.
What is Homemade Simple Mac and Cheese?
Homemade simple mac and cheese is exactly how it sounds—a quick and easy dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. Unlike the box version, making it from scratch leads to rich flavors and a creamy texture that only comes from fresh ingredients.
The homemade recipe not only allows for a taste explosion but also will have you basking in the deliciousness of melty cheese. Trust me; there’s nothing quite like it!
The Ingredients
To make this delightful dish, here’s what you will need:
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder (optional, but enhances flavor)
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor)
- 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 2 cups)
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds a subtle tang)
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni
This streamlined list keeps your grocery trip uncomplicated, and you likely have most of these in your kitchen already!
How to Make Homemade Simple Mac and Cheese?
Let’s dive into it. The steps below will guide you to creating a delicious homemade mac and cheese that’s bound to impress anyone at your dinner table. Ready? Let’s go!
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once the water is ready, add in your elbow macaroni. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This will give you that perfect bite. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Create the Cheese Sauce
Now, let’s turn the heat to medium-low. In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour. This will create a roux—a staple in classic sauces. Don’t forget to keep whisking until you achieve a light golden color, about one to two minutes. This step is crucial as it helps thicken the sauce later.
Step 3: Add the Milk
Next, slowly pour in the whole milk while continuing to whisk. Increase the heat slightly, and your sauce will start to bubble. As it thickens, add in the salt and garlic powder (if you’re using it). Trust me; this will be a game-changer for flavor.
Step 4: Incorporate Sour Cream and Mustard
Once the mixture has thickened, remove it from the heat. Stir in the sour cream and Dijon mustard until combined. Both of these ingredients will elevate your mac and cheese, giving it a divine creaminess and subtle tang.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Now for the best part—add in those two cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Make sure no clumps of cheese remain. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Finally, add the drained macaroni back into the pot. Mix everything until the pasta is evenly coated with the cheese sauce. You are ready to serve!
Notes
Here are a few tips to make your mac and cheese even better:
- Use High-Quality Cheese: The flavor of the cheese truly matters. Your taste buds will thank you.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Add Gruyère or mozzarella for a different twist.
- Make it Creamier: For an extra creamy version, include cream cheese.
- Baking it Up: Want a crispy top? Pour the mac and cheese into a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne for a kick.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating on the stove with a little extra milk will bring back some of that creamy goodness.
You can also freeze mac and cheese for up to two months. Just make sure to portion it out, so you don’t defrost the whole batch later on.
Nutrition Information
Per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: Approx. 360
- Protein: 14g
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
This comforting dish isn’t just delicious but also offers a good balance of nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
If you’re serving this at a gathering or just at home, consider these options to complement your homemade mac and cheese:
- Grilled Chicken: A juicy piece of chicken pairs wonderfully with the creamy pasta. The smoky flavor from grilling complements the cheese sauce beautifully.
- Roasted Vegetables: Try asparagus or broccoli tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper. The freshness will cut through the richness of the dish.
- Garden Salad: A fresh green salad with a citrus vinaigrette adds a bright note that contrasts nicely with the creamy cheese.
- Garlic Bread: Crisp on the outside and soft inside, garlic bread is the perfect side to soak up extra cheese sauce!
- Bacon Bits: Crumbled bacon on top has a salty crunch that can make this comfort dish even more divine.
Substitute Ideas for Homemade Simple Mac and Cheese
Sometimes, you may run out of ingredients, or perhaps you’d like to try something different. Here are some great substitutes:
- Pasta Types: Swap elbow macaroni for other shapes like penne or shells. Each lends a unique texture, and you might find a new favorite!
- Milk Alternatives: Almond milk or oat milk works well instead of regular milk. Just ensure you use a variety that is unsweetened.
- Sour Cream Variations: Greek yogurt can replace sour cream, providing a tangy flavor along with extra protein.
- Different Cheeses: Use mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder taste. Feta cheese adds a different angle altogether.
- Add-Ins: Throw in some cooked spinach, peas, or even roasted red peppers for added texture and nutrition.
Conclusion
Homemade simple mac and cheese is not only a delightful meal but also a great way to rekindle childhood comfort. It brings people together at the table, satisfying hungry bellies with a creamy, cheesy embrace.
With its versatility, you can adapt it according to your family’s preferences or your pantry’s contents.
The next time you’re entertaining guests, whip up this recipe, and you might just find that it becomes a staple in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy every cheesy, gooey bite; you deserve it!
You’ll also like the following recipes!
Homemade Simple Mac and Cheese Recipe – Easy Comfort Food Recipes
Description
If you’re anything like me, a comforting bowl of mac and cheese can feel like a warm hug after a long day. It's simple, it's satisfying, and it fulfills that cheese craving we've all been hit with at some point.
Ingredients
For the Cheese Sauce:
For the Pasta:
Instructions
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
-
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once the water is ready, add in your elbow macaroni. Cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This will give you that perfect bite. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Create the Cheese Sauce
-
Now, let’s turn the heat to medium-low. In the same pot, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour. This will create a roux—a staple in classic sauces. Don’t forget to keep whisking until you achieve a light golden color, about one to two minutes. This step is crucial as it helps thicken the sauce later.
Step 3: Add the Milk
-
Next, slowly pour in the whole milk while continuing to whisk. Increase the heat slightly, and your sauce will start to bubble. As it thickens, add in the salt and garlic powder (if you’re using it). Trust me; this will be a game-changer for flavor.
Step 4: Incorporate Sour Cream and Mustard
-
Once the mixture has thickened, remove it from the heat. Stir in the sour cream and Dijon mustard until combined. Both of these ingredients will elevate your mac and cheese, giving it a divine creaminess and subtle tang.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
-
Now for the best part—add in those two cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Make sure no clumps of cheese remain. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
-
Finally, add the drained macaroni back into the pot. Mix everything until the pasta is evenly coated with the cheese sauce. You are ready to serve!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 360kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 19g30%
- Total Carbohydrate 34g12%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Protein 14g29%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use High-Quality Cheese: The flavor of the cheese truly matters. Your taste buds will thank you.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Add Gruyère or mozzarella for a different twist.
- Make it Creamier: For an extra creamy version, include cream cheese.
- Baking it Up: Want a crispy top? Pour the mac and cheese into a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
- Spice it Up: Feel free to add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne for a kick.
