Looking for a rich, gooey, ultra creamy mac and cheese recipe that blows the boxed version out of the water? You’ve just found your new go-to! This easy stovetop (and optionally baked) mac and cheese is made with a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and a touch of cream cheese to give you that luscious, velvety texture we all crave.
Whether you’re cooking for picky kids, feeding a hungry crowd, or just treating yourself to the ultimate comfort food, this recipe delivers every time.
🧀 Why You’ll Love This Mac and Cheese Recipe
Few dishes deliver comfort like a warm, creamy bowl of homemade mac and cheese. This recipe takes the classic to the next level with a rich cheese sauce made from scratch, layered with flavor and texture. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a hearty side, this mac and cheese is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s easy enough for weeknights but impressive enough for gatherings and holidays.
Here’s why it’s a winner:
✅ Ultra creamy texture – Thanks to a trio of cheeses and a touch of cream cheese
✅ Simple ingredients – Made with pantry staples you probably already have
✅ Ready in 30 minutes – Perfect for busy weeknights
✅ Kid- and adult-approved – A guaranteed family favorite
✅ Customizable – Add bacon, hot sauce, or a crunchy breadcrumb topping
🛒 Ingredients for Creamy Mac and Cheese
Here’s everything you need to make this comfort classic:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni: Holds sauce well, but you can substitute with shells, penne, or cavatappi.
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter: Forms the base of your roux (a simple thickening agent).
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce.
- 2 cups whole milk: Provides a creamy base—avoid skim milk.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds richness; half-and-half is a lighter option.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded): Gives that bold cheesy flavor—shred it fresh for best results.
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (shredded): Adds gooey, stretchy goodness.
- 2 oz cream cheese: A secret weapon for smooth, decadent texture.
- ½ tsp salt + ¼ tsp black pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance the flavor.
- ½ tsp paprika (optional): Adds warmth and a subtle kick.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional): For a golden baked topping.
👩🍳 How to Make Homemade Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Boil the pasta
Cook elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the roux
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute until slightly golden.
Step 3: Build the sauce
Slowly whisk in milk and cream, stirring constantly. Simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened.
Step 4: Add the cheese
Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Step 5: Combine pasta + sauce
Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce. Stir to coat completely.
Step 6 (optional): Add the crunchy topping
Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and broil for 2–3 minutes until golden.
🧊 How to Store and Reheat Mac and Cheese
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheating Tips:
Microwave: Add a splash of milk, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each.
Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.
Creamy Homeade Mac and Cheese (Easy, No-Fail Recipe)
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
3. Slowly add milk and cream, whisking constantly. Simmer until thickened (3–5 minutes).
4. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese. Mix until smooth.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
6. Fold in the pasta. Mix well.
7. Optional: Pour into a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and broil for 2–3 minutes until golden.
Notes
Storage:Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk for best results.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 to 1.5 cups per person, depending on use as a side or main dish (yields 4–6 servings)
- Calories: 520 per serving
