Description
This easy 5 Ingredient Mac and Cheese recipe is perfect for a quick, comforting meal. Using simple pantry staples like elbow noodles, cheddar cheese, milk, butter, and flour, you can whip up a creamy, cheesy dish in under 30 minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend treat, this homemade mac and cheese is both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 box (16 oz) elbow noodles
Cheese Sauce
- 8 ounces cheddar cheese (2 cups shredded)
- 2 cups milk
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Boil the elbow noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Melt Butter: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until fully liquefied.
- Add Flour: Whisk in the all-purpose flour into the melted butter. It may form lumps, which is normal at this stage.
- Incorporate Milk: Slowly pour in the milk while continuously whisking to combine. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Mix Cheese: Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce and whisk until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine with Noodles: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked noodles and gently stir until all the pasta is coated evenly with the cheesy sauce.
- Optional Baking Step: For a baked variation, transfer the cheesy noodles into a baking dish. Top with extra cheese if desired, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Scoop portions onto plates or bowls and enjoy your creamy homemade mac and cheese.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger cheese flavor.
- Ensure to whisk continuously when adding milk to prevent lumps.
- For a richer sauce, substitute half the milk with cream.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour and pasta.
- Adding a pinch of mustard powder or smoked paprika can enhance the flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Boiling and Optional Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, 5 ingredient recipe, homemade mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese
