Super Simple Macaroni and Cheese
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Super Simple Macaroni and Cheese recipe—perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a creamy, cheesy classic. Made with pantry staples like elbow macaroni, butter, and flour, this dish comes together in just 20 minutes, offering a velvety cheese sauce featuring two cups of shredded cheddar and a hint of optional ground mustard for added depth. The recipe employs a foolproof roux base to create a luxurious texture that clings to every bite of pasta. With minimal prep time and crowd-pleasing flavor, this homemade mac and cheese is bound to become a family favorite. Serve it as a stand-alone meal or pair it with your favorite sides for a comforting feast.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 0.25 teaspoons ground mustard (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to cook and stir for 3-5 minutes, until the mixture thickens.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, and ground mustard (if using). Adjust seasoning to taste.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well combined and evenly coated.
Serve immediately for the creamiest texture. Enjoy your Super Simple Macaroni and Cheese!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
1177 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 40.1 g | 51% | |
| Saturated Fat | 21.0 g | 105% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 93 mg | 31% | |
| Sodium | 1186 mg | 52% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 170.9 g | 62% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.8 g | 28% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.2 g | ||
| Protein | 31.4 g | 63% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 14 mg | 1% | |
| Iron | 8.3 mg | 46% | |
| Potassium | 37 mg | 1% | |
*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.
