Creamy Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food—and it’s no surprise that it’s one of the few meals picky eaters never turn down. This version is made with real cheddar cheese and a smooth, buttery sauce that coats every noodle perfectly. It’s warm, familiar, and satisfying without being overly complicated. When you’re short on time and ingredients but still want something homemade, mac and cheese is the go-to.

What makes this dish even better is how easy it is to customize. Want to sneak in some vegetables? A handful of peas or sweetcorn blends in seamlessly with the sauce, adding a touch of color and nutrition without changing the flavor too much. It’s an effortless way to add a little balance to the plate. Kids won’t notice—and adults will appreciate the upgrade.

Whether you’re serving this as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to be a winner at the dinner table. You can pair it with chicken, sausages, or even a green salad for a well-rounded meal. Plus, it stores and reheats beautifully, making leftovers just as crave-worthy the next day. With just a few pantry staples and 25 minutes, you’ll have a cheesy classic that brings everyone to the table.

Servings: 4

Nutrition: 400–500 calories per serving

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup cooked peas or sweetcorn (optional)

Instructions

• Cook the Pasta: Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
• Make a Roux: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden.
• Add Milk: Slowly whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
• Melt the Cheese: Reduce heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
• Combine: Add cooked macaroni and stir until fully coated. Mix in peas or sweetcorn, if using.
• Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm.

Substitutions & Variations

• Use Different Pasta Shapes: Shells or rotini work just as well.
• Try a Cheese Blend: Mix cheddar with mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor.
• Add Protein: Stir in diced cooked chicken or crumbled bacon for extra heartiness.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

What Equipment You’ll Need

• Medium pot (for pasta)
• Saucepan (for cheese sauce)
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Storage & Reheating Guidelines

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.

Top Tips

• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents and doesn’t melt as smoothly.
• Stir Constantly While Cooking the Sauce: This prevents lumps and ensures a velvety texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly firm macaroni holds up better once mixed with the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make this ahead of time?
  Yes, prepare the mac and cheese and refrigerate it. Reheat gently with a splash of milk before serving.
• Can I freeze macaroni and cheese?
  It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it. Reheat with added milk and stir well to restore the texture.

Related Recipes

• Pasta with Hidden Veg Sauce: A colorful, blended veggie sauce stirred through pasta for a comforting meal that’s secretly nutritious.
• Sausage Pasta Bake: A one-pot wonder that’s cheesy, hearty, and filled with familiar flavors even picky eaters love.

Food Safety Guidelines

• Refrigerate Quickly: Store leftovers within 2 hours of cooking.
• Reheat Evenly: Stir halfway through reheating to avoid cold spots.
• Avoid Cross-Contamination: Use clean utensils for serving and reheating.
• Use Fresh Milk and Cheese: Always check expiration dates before cooking.