Comfort Food Mac And Cheese

Name: Comfort Food Mac And Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated; 1 teaspoon mustard powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Dishes

I recently rediscovered my love for macaroni and cheese, and this recipe brings together creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta in the most delightful way. With a hint of spice and a buttery breadcrumb topping, it’s the ultimate comfort dish that warms the soul. It's simple enough for a weeknight meal yet indulgent enough to impress guests at a dinner party. Each bite offers a perfect balance of flavors that makes your heart sing. I can't wait to share my secret tips for achieving the creamiest sauce that you won’t want to miss!

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2026-01-24T08:39:59.016Z

As I tried to perfect my mac and cheese recipe, I found that the right cheese blend made all the difference. Combining sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella created a richness that I hadn’t experienced before. I also learned that to avoid a grainy texture, it’s important to add the cheese slowly to the béchamel sauce while whisking continuously. This little tip transformed my dish from ordinary to extraordinary!

This recipe is not just a one-pot wonder; it can also be customized! For instance, adding sautéed mushrooms or crispy bacon elevates the flavor profile even more. I love serving this with a side of fresh greens to balance the richness. Trust me, it’s comfort food at its best!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy, velvety sauce that coats each noodle perfectly
Golden, crispy topping that adds a delightful crunch
Easily customizable with your favorite add-ins like veggies or meats

Perfecting the Cheese Sauce

The cheese sauce is what truly makes this mac and cheese stand out. When melting the butter, make sure to keep the heat at medium to avoid burning it. As you whisk in the flour, you're creating a roux, which should cook just until it's golden. This step is crucial because a well-cooked roux will give your sauce a rich, nutty flavor. If the mixture seems too thick, adding a splash of milk can restore the desired creaminess without compromising the sauce's integrity.

When adding the milk, do it gradually while whisking continuously. This technique prevents any lumps from forming. It’s essential to cook the mixture until it thickens to a consistency that coats the back of a spoon. You’re looking for a glossy finish here. If it remains too runny, simply return it to the heat for a minute or two; just be cautious not to let it boil, as that could lead to a grainy texture.

Choosing Your Cheeses

The choice of cheese plays a pivotal role in the flavor and texture of your mac and cheese. Sharp cheddar offers a robust flavor that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of mozzarella. For a twist, consider incorporating a small amount of Gruyère or smoked gouda. These melt beautifully and introduce unique depths of flavor. I often mix in a handful of Parmesan for an extra layer of richness; however, be mindful that it can also bring a saltiness, so adjust your seasoning accordingly.

While this recipe calls for cheddar and mozzarella, feel free to explore. If you're looking for a dairy-free option, substitutes like nutritional yeast or cashew cheese can provide a savory flavor. Should you choose to go this route, remember that the texture may differ, so you might need additional thickening agents like cornstarch or tapioca flour to achieve the right consistency.

Tips for Baking Perfection

The final bake is essential for achieving that delightful crunchy topping. When mixing the breadcrumbs with melted butter, ensure the mixture is evenly coated; this is what will create the golden, crisp texture on top. For an extra flavor boost, you can add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture or sprinkle in some garlic powder for complexity. Spread the breadcrumbs evenly over the pasta, making sure every nook and cranny is covered.

Keep an eye on the mac and cheese while it bakes. Ovens can vary, and you want it just golden, not burnt. Ideally, after about 12-15 minutes at 350°F (175°C), the top should be beautifully browned. If after that time it’s not yet golden, you can switch your oven to broil for a couple of minutes—just be vigilant, as this can go from perfectly crisp to burnt quickly!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for your mac and cheese:

Macaroni and Cheese Ingredients

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
1 teaspoon mustard powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (optional)

Make sure you have everything ready to go before starting!

Instructions

Follow these straightforward steps to create your perfect mac and cheese:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions, typically about 7-8 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and stir for about a minute until it's lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the Cheese

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the grated cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Add mustard powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated.

Prepare the Topping

In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with a little melted butter. Sprinkle over the mac and cheese for a crunchy finish.

Bake and Serve

Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and top with breadcrumb mixture. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Sprinkle with parsley before serving.

Enjoy your creamy, cheesy goodness!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce!

Storing and Reheating

Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, the microwave is quickest, but it can dry out the pasta. For the best results, I recommend reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Cover the dish with foil to retain moisture, and add a splash of milk if it seems dry. This method also helps to revitalize the crust.

If you're looking to make ahead, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking point. Just assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and pop it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, keep the foil on for the first 15 minutes to steam it, removing it afterward to allow the top to crisp up.

Delicious Variations

This mac and cheese serves as a fantastic base to experiment with flavors. Consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms to incorporate some nutrition and color. If you're a meat lover, diced ham, crispy bacon, or shredded chicken can elevate your dish to a hearty meal. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as meats can introduce additional saltiness.

For a playful twist, think about flavor infusions. Adding a bit of truffle oil or buffalo sauce can differentiate your mac and cheese for special occasions. For a more sophisticated option, incorporate some cooked lobster or crab for an indulgent seafood touch. Just keep in mind that you'll want to incorporate these ingredients delicately to ensure the pasta remains the star of the dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, gluten-free pasta works well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

Feel free to mix in cheese types like Gouda, fontina, or even blue cheese for a unique twist.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and then bake it just before serving.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.