Easiest Mac N Cheese
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this 'Easiest Mac N Cheese' recipe—your new go-to for a quick, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy meal. Made with simple pantry staples like elbow macaroni, whole milk, and sharp cheddar cheese, this recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. A rich homemade cheese sauce, seasoned with a hint of paprika for optional flair, coats each piece of pasta for that perfect balance of velvety smoothness and bold flavor. With minimal prep and maximum satisfaction, this creamy mac and cheese promises to be a family favorite you'll make on repeat. Serve it hot and fresh, and don't forget an extra sprinkle of cheese for a decadent finishing touch!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons ground black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoons paprika (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, whisking constantly, until the mixture forms a smooth paste.
Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Adjust the seasoning to taste.
Add the drained macaroni back into the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
Serve immediately while hot and creamy. Optionally, garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or additional shredded cheese on top.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
562 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 28.9 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 18.3 g | 91% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 88 mg | 29% | |
| Sodium | 659 mg | 29% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 52.8 g | 19% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.2 g | 8% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.2 g | ||
| Protein | 25.7 g | 51% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.6 mcg | 8% | |
| Calcium | 555 mg | 43% | |
| Iron | 2.0 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 233 mg | 5% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
