How to Make Delicious Homemade Mac and Cheese from Scratch

Why I Love Homemade Mac and Cheese

There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of homemade mac and cheese—it’s pure comfort food! Growing up, my mom always made it from scratch, and the smell of bubbling cheese in the oven brings back the best memories. Store-bought mac and cheese just can’t compare to the rich, cheesy goodness of a homemade version.

I know many people think making mac and cheese from scratch is complicated, but trust me, it’s easier than you think. With the right blend of cheeses, a perfectly creamy sauce, and a few simple tricks, you’ll have a dish that tastes just like grandma’s—if not better!

In this recipe, I’ll show you step by step how to make the best homemade mac and cheese, including:
✔ The best cheeses to use (and which ones to avoid)
✔ A fail-proof creamy cheese sauce
✔ Pro tips for the perfect consistency
✔ Mistakes to avoid so your mac and cheese turns out perfectly every time

Let’s get started!

Delicious Homemade Mac and Cheese from Scratch

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• Author: Grace
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 1 large dish of mac and cheese 1x
• Diet: Vegan

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Description

This creamy, cheesy, and comforting homemade mac and cheese is far better than anything from a box! Made with a blend of rich cheeses, a silky smooth sauce, and optional crispy topping, this recipe is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you serve it stovetop or baked to golden perfection, this mac and cheese will become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz elbow macaroni (or cavatappi, shells, or penne)
• Water (for boiling)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon butter (to prevent sticking)

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, freshly grated
• ½ cup mozzarella cheese, freshly grated
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika (for a subtle smokiness)

Optional Crispy Topping (for Baked Version):

• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• ¼ teaspoon paprika

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add macaroni and cook 1-2 minutes less than package instructions (al dente texture).
3. Drain but do not rinse (keeps the starch for better sauce adhesion).
4. Toss with 1 tablespoon butter to prevent sticking.

💡 Pro Tip: If baking later, slightly undercook pasta so it doesn’t turn mushy.

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Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in ¼ cup flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until light golden.
3. Slowly pour in 2 cups milk and 1 cup heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Simmer until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheeses gradually, in small handfuls:
   • 2 cups cheddar
   • 1 cup Gruyère
   • ½ cup mozzarella
   • ¼ cup Parmesan
6. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
7. Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

💡 Pro Tip: Adding cheese over high heat can cause it to separate—keep heat low!

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Step 3: Combine Pasta & Sauce

1. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently until well coated.
2. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of warm milk to loosen it.

👉 At this stage, your mac and cheese is ready for stovetop serving!
Want a crispy topping? Keep reading!

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Step 4: Make the Crispy Topping (Optional)

1. In a bowl, mix:
   • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
   • 2 tablespoons melted butter
   • ¼ teaspoon paprika
2. Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.

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Step 5: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Transfer mac and cheese to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping over the top.
4. Bake for 20 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
5. For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.

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Step 6: Rest & Serve

1. Let mac and cheese sit for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley (optional) and serve warm.

💡 Serving Idea: Add crispy bacon bits, hot sauce, or grilled chicken for extra flavor!

Notes

✔ Best Cheese Combination: For the ultimate creamy mac and cheese, use a mix of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Avoid pre-shredded cheese for the smoothest melt.

✔ Make-Ahead Tips: Assemble the mac and cheese without the breadcrumb topping and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add the topping just before baking to keep it crispy.

✔ For Extra Creaminess: If you love an ultra-creamy mac and cheese, skip baking and serve it directly from the stovetop with an extra ½ cup of heavy cream stirred in.

✔ Gluten-Free Option: Swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour for the roux.

✔ Spicy Kick: Want to add some heat? Try mixing in diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or use Pepper Jack cheese for a little spice.

✔ Best Pasta Shapes for Mac & Cheese: Elbow macaroni, cavatappi, shells, or penne work best as they hold onto the cheese sauce beautifully.

✔ How to Fix a Too-Thick Sauce: If the cheese sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of warm milk until you reach the perfect consistency.

💡 Serving Suggestion: This mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with BBQ meats, roasted veggies, or a simple side salad for a balanced meal!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes (including baking time)
• Category: Main Course, Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6 servings
• Calories: ~550 kcal
• Fat: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 18g

Essential Ingredients for Homemade Mac and Cheese

For the best results, use high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Pasta

• Elbow macaroni (classic choice, holds sauce well)
• You can also use shells, cavatappi, or penne for a fun twist.

2. Cheese (The Star of the Show!)

For the creamiest, most flavorful mac and cheese, use a blend of cheeses:

• Sharp cheddar (for that classic, bold taste)
• Gruyère (melts beautifully and adds richness)
• Mozzarella (for extra gooeyness)
• Parmesan (adds a salty depth)

💡 Tip: Avoid pre-shredded cheese—it contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly! Always grate your own for the best texture.

3. Creamy Sauce Base

• Butter (unsalted, for control over the saltiness)
• All-purpose flour (to thicken the sauce)
• Whole milk & heavy cream (for a rich, silky texture)
• Dijon mustard (adds a slight tang and depth of flavor)
• Garlic powder & onion powder (for a subtle, savory boost)
• Salt & black pepper (to taste)
• Paprika (for a hint of smokiness)

4. Topping (Optional but Recommended!)

• Panko breadcrumbs (for a crispy golden topping)
• A bit of melted butter (to toast the breadcrumbs perfectly)

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly

The pasta is the foundation of your mac and cheese, so cooking it right is crucial!

How to Cook Pasta for Mac and Cheese:

1️⃣ Boil water – Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt (this flavors the pasta!).
2️⃣ Cook the pasta – Boil until al dente (firm but not mushy). This takes about 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions.
3️⃣ Drain and rinse – Drain the pasta and do NOT rinse it (this keeps the starch so the cheese sauce sticks better).
4️⃣ Toss with butter – Add a small pat of butter to keep the pasta from sticking while you prepare the sauce.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re baking your mac and cheese later, undercook the pasta slightly so it doesn’t get mushy in the oven.

Step 2: Create a Smooth Cheese Sauce

A great mac and cheese sauce is all about the right technique. Follow these steps for a lump-free, ultra-creamy sauce:

1️⃣ Make a Roux (The Secret to a Thick, Creamy Sauce)

The roux is a mixture of butter and flour that thickens the sauce and prevents it from becoming watery.

👉 How to Make It:

1. In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Once melted, whisk in ¼ cup of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. The mixture should turn light golden—this cooks off the raw flour taste.

💡 Pro Tip: Don’t rush this step! If the roux is undercooked, the sauce will taste like raw flour.

2️⃣ Slowly Add the Milk & Cream

To get that silky, smooth texture, you need to gradually add the liquid:

1. Slowly pour in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
2. Keep stirring as the mixture thickens (this takes about 5 minutes).

💡 Troubleshooting Tip: If the sauce looks too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer.

3️⃣ Melt in the Cheese (The Best Part!)

Once the sauce is thick and smooth, it’s time to add the cheese!

1. Turn the heat to low (this prevents the cheese from becoming grainy).
2. Stir in:
   • 2 cups sharp cheddar (freshly grated)
   • 1 cup Gruyère (for creaminess)
   • ½ cup mozzarella (for that stretchy texture)
   • ¼ cup Parmesan (for a bold, salty kick)
3. Stir gently until everything is melted and smooth.

💡 Pro Tip: Add cheese in small handfuls and stir between additions for a silky, lump-free sauce.

4️⃣ Season to Perfection

Now, boost the flavor with:
✔ 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (adds depth)
✔ ½ teaspoon garlic powder
✔ ½ teaspoon onion powder
✔ ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
✔ ½ teaspoon black pepper
✔ ¼ teaspoon paprika (for a touch of smokiness)

💡 Taste Test: Take a spoonful—it should be rich, cheesy, and full of flavor! Adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 3: Combine Pasta with Cheese Sauce

1️⃣ Add the Cooked Pasta

• Slowly pour the drained pasta into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to combine.
• Make sure every piece is coated in the creamy sauce.

💡 Pro Tip: If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of warm milk to loosen it up.

2️⃣ Mix Thoroughly & Adjust Consistency

• Stir the pasta and sauce over low heat for 1-2 minutes.
• If the sauce thickens too much, add a little more milk or cream.

👉 At this stage, your mac and cheese is ready to serve as a stovetop version!
But if you want to take it to the next level, let’s add a golden, crispy topping and bake it.

Step 4: Add a Crispy Topping (Optional but Delicious!)

A baked mac and cheese version gives you the best of both worlds—creamy inside with a crispy, golden crust.

How to Make the Perfect Topping:

1. In a small bowl, mix:
   • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
   • 2 tablespoons melted butter (helps it crisp up)
   • ¼ teaspoon paprika (adds a touch of smokiness)
2. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the mac and cheese.
3. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, until golden and bubbling.

💡 Pro Tip: Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for an extra crispy top!

Step 5: Bake Until Golden & Bubbly

1️⃣ Preheat the Oven

• Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• If you’re using a glass or ceramic baking dish, let it come to room temperature before baking to prevent cracking.

2️⃣ Bake to Perfection

• Place the dish on the middle rack and bake for 20 minutes.
• The cheese should be bubbling, and the top should turn golden brown.

3️⃣ Broil for Extra Crunch (Optional)

• For an ultra-crispy topping, switch the oven to broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
• Keep an eye on it—it can burn fast!

💡 Pro Tip: If you prefer a creamier version, you can skip baking and serve straight from the stovetop!

Step 6: Let It Rest & Serve

1️⃣ Let It Cool for 5 Minutes

• This helps the cheese sauce set and prevents it from running.

2️⃣ Garnish & Serve

• Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
• Serve warm and enjoy!

What to Serve with Homemade Mac and Cheese

Wondering what to pair with your mac and cheese? Here are some delicious ideas:

🥩 Proteins:

• Grilled chicken
• Crispy bacon bits
• BBQ pulled pork

🥦 Veggies:

• Roasted Brussels sprouts
• Sautéed spinach
• Steamed broccoli

🍞 Extras:

• Garlic bread
• Side salad with balsamic dressing

💡 Pro Tip: Add a side of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!

How to Store & Reheat Mac and Cheese

Storing Leftovers

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.

Reheating Tips

✔ Stovetop: Add a splash of milk and heat on low, stirring often.
✔ Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
✔ Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between to prevent drying out.

💡 Avoid reheating on high heat—it can cause the cheese sauce to separate!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Creative Mac and Cheese Variations

1. Extra Creamy Stovetop Mac and Cheese

• Skip baking for an ultra-creamy version served straight from the stovetop!
• Add an extra ½ cup of heavy cream for even more richness.

2. Baked Lobster Mac and Cheese 🦞

• Stir in cooked lobster meat for a luxurious upgrade.
• Add a touch of Old Bay seasoning for extra flavor.

3. Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese 🌶

• Add sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños for heat.
• Sprinkle pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.

4. Truffle Mac and Cheese 🍄

• Drizzle truffle oil over the finished dish.
• Use a mix of white cheddar and Gouda for a sophisticated flavor.

5. Vegan Mac and Cheese 🌱

• Use coconut milk or cashew cream instead of dairy.
• Swap cheese for nutritional yeast and blended roasted butternut squash for a creamy texture.

💡 Pro Tip: No matter which variation you try, keep the base rich and creamy for the best results!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making homemade mac and cheese seems simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin the texture and flavor. Here’s how to avoid them and get perfectly creamy, cheesy results every time!

Mistake #1: Using Pre-Shredded Cheese

❌ Problem: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting, leading to a grainy sauce.
✅ Solution: Always grate your own cheese for a creamier, smoother texture.

💡 Best Cheese Choices: Sharp cheddar, Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or a mix of melt-friendly cheeses.

Mistake #2: Overcooking the Pasta

❌ Problem: If the pasta is too soft before adding the cheese sauce, it will turn mushy when baked.
✅ Solution: Cook pasta 1-2 minutes less than the package directions (al dente). This way, it holds up better in the sauce.

💡 Pro Tip: If baking the mac and cheese, undercook the pasta slightly to prevent it from becoming too soft.

Mistake #3: Rushing the Roux

❌ Problem: If the flour in the roux is undercooked, the sauce will taste floury. If overcooked, it can burn and taste bitter.
✅ Solution: Cook the roux (butter + flour) for 1-2 minutes until it turns light golden before adding milk.

💡 Test It: The roux should smell nutty, not raw or burnt.

Mistake #4: Adding Cold Milk All at Once

❌ Problem: Pouring in cold milk too quickly creates lumps in the sauce.
✅ Solution: Warm the milk first and add it gradually, whisking constantly to keep the sauce smooth.

💡 Bonus Tip: If lumps form, use an immersion blender to smooth it out.

Mistake #5: Overheating the Cheese

❌ Problem: If the cheese is added over high heat, it can become grainy or separate into a greasy mess.
✅ Solution: Remove the pot from heat before stirring in cheese. Let the residual heat melt it slowly for a silky texture.

💡 Best Method: Add cheese in small handfuls, stirring between each addition.

Mistake #6: Skipping the Seasonings

❌ Problem: Without proper seasoning, mac and cheese can taste bland.
✅ Solution: Add salt, black pepper, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and paprika for deep, rich flavor.

💡 Flavor Boosters: Try a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra kick!

Mistake #7: Using the Wrong Pasta Shape

❌ Problem: Some pasta shapes don’t hold cheese sauce well, leaving you with a less creamy bite.
✅ Solution: Use pasta with ridges or curves to trap the sauce, like:
✔ Elbow macaroni (classic choice)
✔ Cavatappi (spiral-shaped for extra sauce cling)
✔ Shells (cups that hold creamy sauce inside)

💡 Avoid spaghetti or angel hair—they don’t hold sauce well.

Mistake #8: Not Letting It Rest Before Serving

❌ Problem: If served too soon, the sauce can be runny and won’t stick to the pasta properly.
✅ Solution: Let mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce thicken and cling better to the pasta.

💡 Pro Tip: If your sauce gets too thick, stir in a splash of warm milk before serving.

Love Mac and Cheese? Try These Delicious Recipes Too!

Homemade mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, but if you’re a foodie like me, you’re always looking for more delicious dishes to try. Here are some must-try recipes that pair beautifully with mac and cheese or stand on their own as incredible meals and treats:

1. Best Venison Mince Recipes – Delicious Ways to Cook Venison

Looking to shake things up with a unique protein? Venison mince is lean, flavorful, and perfect for hearty dishes like meatballs, chili, or a meaty baked mac and cheese twist. These venison mince recipes will add a delicious, gamey richness to your meals.

2. Mary Berry’s Coronation Chicken Recipe – A British Classic

Creamy, lightly spiced, and packed with flavor, Mary Berry’s coronation chicken is a must-try dish. If you love the creamy richness of mac and cheese, this recipe brings a similar comforting vibe—perfect for a sandwich, salad, or side dish.

3. Best Pollo Loco Recipe – Marinated Mexican Grilled Chicken

Want to serve something savory alongside your mac and cheese? This Pollo Loco recipe delivers juicy, marinated Mexican-style grilled chicken that pairs beautifully with creamy, cheesy pasta. A match made in foodie heaven!

4. Protein Donuts – Delicious, Healthy Snacking Redefined

Balance out your mac and cheese indulgence with a high-protein treat! These protein-packed donuts are soft, satisfying, and a guilt-free way to enjoy something sweet.

5. How to Make Cookies and Cream Frosting – The Ultimate Topping

If you’re in the mood for dessert after your mac and cheese feast, this cookies and cream frosting is the perfect topping for cakes, cupcakes, or even as a dip for fresh fruit. Creamy, sweet, and packed with cookie crumbles—it’s pure decadence!