There’s nothing quite like a warm, cheesy bowl of homemade mac and cheese. Forget the boxed versions—this rich, creamy, and indulgent recipe is made with real cheese, a velvety béchamel sauce, and a crispy golden topping. It’s the perfect dish for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you need a little comfort food.
With sharp cheddar for flavor, Parmesan for depth, and buttery breadcrumbs for crunch, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality mac and cheese that’s easy to make at home. Plus, it’s fully customizable—add veggies, swap cheeses, or make it extra spicy!
easy Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Sauce:
2 cups (500ml) whole milk
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp garlic powder (optional)
½ tsp onion powder (optional)
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
2 cups (200g) sharp English or Canadian cheddar cheese, grated
½ cup (50g) Parmesan cheese, grated
For the Pasta:
- 250g elbow macaroni or any short pasta (penne, fusilli, or shells)
- Water for boiling
- 1 tbsp salt
For the Topping:
- ½ cup (50g) Japanese panko breadcrumbs (or homemade breadcrumbs)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup (50g) grated cheddar or Parmesan
Steps / Directions:
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
- Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce (Béchamel + Cheese)
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.
- Stir in flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5 minutes).
- Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard (if using).
- Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan until fully melted and smooth.
3. Assemble the Mac and Cheese
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Butter or oil a baking dish.
- Add cooked pasta and pour the cheese sauce over it. Mix well.
- Let sit for 10 minutes to allow the sauce to be absorbed slightly.
4. Make the Topping & Bake
- In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the extra cheddar or Parmesan over the mac and cheese.
- Add the buttered breadcrumbs on top.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
5. Serve & Enjoy
- Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm as a main dish or a side.
Tips for the Best Creamy Mac and Cheese
✔ Use high-quality cheese: Avoid pre-shredded cheese as it contains anti-caking agents that affect melting.
✔ Don’t overcook the pasta: It will continue cooking in the oven, so keep it al dente.
✔ Whisk constantly: When making béchamel, whisking prevents lumps and creates a smooth sauce.
✔ Cling film trick: If not using immediately, cover the sauce with cling film touching the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
✔ Experiment with flavors: Try smoked gouda, gruyere, or blue cheese for a twist.
✔ Customize with add-ins: Add sautéed mushrooms, crispy bacon, or roasted garlic for extra flavor.
How to Serve Creamy Mac and Cheese
🍽 Main Dish: Serve with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
🥩 Side Dish: Pair with grilled chicken, steak, or BBQ ribs.
🌶 Toppings: Add crispy bacon bits, caramelized onions, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
❄️ Storage:
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
