Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe
This creamy, cheesy stovetop mac and cheese comes together in just 15 minutes using 8 simple ingredients. A quick, comforting meal the whole family will love.
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 about 2 cups
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions. Drain without rinsing.
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour, salt, and garlic powder. Cook for about 1 minute until it bubbles slightly.
- Slowly pour in milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add sour cream or Greek yogurt and whisk until smooth. Cook 3–5 minutes until thickened but not boiling.
- Reduce heat to low. Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until completely melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat. Let sit for a few minutes before serving to allow sauce to thicken.
Notes
- Shred your own cheese for the smoothest sauce.
- Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Don’t skip salting the pasta water—it adds key flavor.
- Whole milk or half and half give the creamiest result.
- Want variety? Stir in steamed broccoli or diced cooked chicken for a twist.
- Double the batch to feed a crowd or save leftovers.
Nutrition
Calories: 271kcalCarbohydrates: 25.3gProtein: 12.3gFat: 13.8gSaturated Fat: 8.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.4gMonounsaturated Fat: 3.5gCholesterol: 41.7mgSodium: 351mgPotassium: 102.8mgFiber: 1.1gSugar: 2.6gVitamin A: 460IUVitamin C: 0.1mgCalcium: 252mgIron: 0.3mg
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