Our full recipe guide on how to make Mac and Cheese is one of the most popular recipes in the world.
Making a delicious, authentic Mac and Cheese involves crafting a creamy, cheesy sauce that clings perfectly to pasta. Here’s a guide to creating a classic baked version.
BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE
Two of our favorite travel insurance: Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review and the comparison Heymondo vs Genki and if you look for accommodation with Booking
How to Make Mac and Cheese
Mac and Cheese Recipe Ingredients
Pasta:
1 lb elbow macaroni (or other short pasta)
Cheese Sauce:
4 tbsp butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups milk (whole or 2% recommended)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
4 cups shredded cheese (a mix of cheddar, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack works well)
Topping (optional):
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
2 tbsp butter, melted
Get the best deals for your home and kitchen needs
Step By Step How to Make Mac and Cheese
Prepare the Pasta
Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes while whisking continuously, being careful not to burn it. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to create a smooth, lump-free sauce.
Add salt, pepper, paprika, and mustard. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and gradually add 3 cups of the shredded cheese, stirring until melted.
Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine. Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the Topping (optional)
Mix the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the pasta. Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheese over the top.
Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the Mac and Cheese for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Feel free to adjust the recipe by using different cheeses, adding cooked bacon, or incorporating vegetables like broccoli or spinach.
Tips To Make Mac and Cheese
Choose the Right Pasta
Use short pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, shells, or cavatappi, which have ridges to hold onto the sauce better.
Cook Pasta Al Dente
Boil the pasta to al dente (firm to the bite) so it won’t become mushy when baked or mixed with the cheese sauce.
Use a Mix of Cheeses
Combine cheeses for the sauce. Sharp cheddar adds flavor, while mozzarella, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack offer creaminess. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses, which may contain anti-caking agents that can affect the texture.
Make a Roux
Create a roux by cooking flour and butter together before adding milk. This prevents lumps and forms a smooth base for the cheese sauce.
Gradually Add Milk
Pour milk slowly into the roux while stirring constantly to ensure a lump-free béchamel sauce.
Add Cheese Slowly
Turn off the heat when adding cheese to prevent curdling or graininess. Add it gradually while stirring.
Season Well
Include salt, pepper, paprika, mustard powder, garlic powder, or even a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
Customize with Add-Ins
Consider adding cooked bacon, jalapeños, roasted garlic, or vegetables like broccoli for variety. If baking, use breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or grated cheese for a crunchy topping.
Bake Carefully
If baking, don’t overbake or it may dry out. Bake just until bubbly and golden brown.
Serve Fresh
Serve Mac and Cheese fresh from the oven while the cheese sauce is still creamy and smooth.
How Many Calories Have Mac and Cheese
Pasta: Roughly 200-250 calories for about 1 cup of cooked elbow macaroni.
Cheese Sauce:
Butter: Around 50-100 calories (from 1 tbsp of butter).
Flour: About 25 calories.
Milk: Roughly 60-80 calories per cup, depending on the fat content.
Cheese varies by type but generally adds around 200-300 calories per cup of shredded cheese.
Breadcrumb Topping (optional): Approximately 50-100 calories, depending on the amount.
A serving of Mac and Cheese can have around 400-600 calories or more.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.