Homemade Mac and Cheese
Homemade Mac and Cheese pairs tender pasta with a flavorful sauce or filling for a satisfying main dish.
About This Recipe
Homemade Mac and Cheese works best when the pasta and sauce finish together.
Save a little cooking water or sauce to loosen the texture before serving.
Ingredients
- ✓8 ounces elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- ✓2 Tablespoons salted butter
- ✓2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ✓½ teaspoon sea salt
- ✓¼ teaspoon garlic powder ((optional but recommended))
- ✓1 cup whole milk
- ✓¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- ✓8 ounces shredded cheddar cheese ((2 cups))
Ingredient Notes
- Pasta: Cook until just tender so it holds sauce.
- Sauce: Keep sauce loose enough to coat every piece.
- Cheese or seasoning: Add gradually and taste before serving.
- Reserved liquid: A splash of pasta water can help the sauce turn glossy.
Instructions
- 1
Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Be sure to add ¼ tsp salt to the water used to boil the noodles. Drain, and set aside.
- 2
Mix flour, sea salt, and garlic powder together in a small bowl. Set aside.
- 3
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- 4
Add flour mixture and whisk to combine.
- 5
Cook for 1 minute until mixture is slightly brown.
- 6
Add 1 cup milk and whisk until the mixture is smooth.
- 7
Add sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and whisk until smooth.
- 8
Cook on medium-high heat until the mixture is thickened (about 3-5 minutes). Do not let it boil.
- 9
Once mixture is thick (sticks to the back of the spatula), reduce heat to low and add cheese. Whisk until cheese is melted and mixture is smooth. Taste and add more salt/seasoning if desired.
- 10
Add cooked pasta to the pot of cheese sauce and stir until the sauce is evenly distributed.
Katy’s Kitchen Tips
- Salt the pasta water.
- Cook pasta just until tender.
- Reserve some cooking water.
- Toss pasta and sauce together before serving.
Variations and Substitutions
- Herb finish: Add parsley, cilantro, basil, dill, or chives.
- Spicier version: Increase chili, cayenne, black pepper, or hot sauce.
- Saucy version: Serve with gravy, salsa, pan sauce, or yogurt sauce.
- Meal prep: Use leftovers in bowls, wraps, salads, or sandwiches.
What to Serve With Homemade Mac and Cheese
Serve Homemade Mac and Cheese with garlic bread, salad, roasted vegetables, or extra grated cheese.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days.
Reheat gently so the center stays tender and the sauce does not dry out.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooked pasta: Soft pasta can break and feel heavy.
- Dry sauce: Keep a little water or sauce to loosen the dish.
- Rinsing pasta: Rinsing removes starch that helps sauce cling.
- Serving too late: Pasta thickens as it sits.
FAQ
Can I make Homemade Mac and Cheese ahead?
Yes. Prep or cook ahead, then reheat gently or finish close to serving.
How do I know it is done?
Use the time range plus a thermometer or the doneness sign in the method.
Can I change the seasoning?
Yes. Adjust herbs, spices, heat, or sauce to match your meal.
How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers airtight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 271.1 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 25.3 g
- Cholesterol: 41.7 mg
- Fiber: 1.1 g
- Protein: 12.3 g
- Sodium: 351 mg
- Sugar: 2.6 g
- Fat: 13.8 g
- Saturated Fat: 8.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.9 g