DinnerVegetarianQuick Meals

Homemade Mac and Cheese: Creamy, Luxurious Comfort Food

Name: Homemade Mac and Cheese: Creamy, Luxurious Comfort Food
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound elbow macaroni (or your favorite short pasta shape); 1 tablespoon salt (for the pasta water); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 3 cups whole milk (warmed); 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1 2 black pepper; 1 4 smoked paprika (adds depth); 1 4 garlic powder (optional); 4 cups shredded cheese blend (mix of sharp cheddar and Gruyère recommended); 1 2 panko breadcrumbs (optional for topping); 2 tablespoons melted butter; 1 pinch paprika

By Emma CollinsAug 22, 2026

Homemade mac and cheese is a beloved dish that combines perfectly cooked pasta with a velvety cheese sauce. This recipe elevates traditional comfort food with a blend of cheeses, creating a rich and smooth texture. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, it's hearty and satisfying without being heavy. Serve it as is or enhance it with your favorite add-ins for extra flavor.

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4 servings

Ingredients

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Servings

•1 pound elbow macaroni (or your favorite short pasta shape)
•1 tablespoon salt (for the pasta water)
•4 tablespoons unsalted butter
•1 cup all-purpose flour
•3 cups whole milk (warmed)
•1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
•1 2 black pepper
•1 4 smoked paprika (adds depth)
•1 4 garlic powder (optional)
•4 cups shredded cheese blend (mix of sharp cheddar and Gruyère recommended)
•1 2 panko breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
•2 tablespoons melted butter
•1 pinch paprika

Instructions

1
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) if baking.
2
Whisk together flour, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder in a medium bowl.
3
Warm the milk slightly in a small saucepan or microwave.
4
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
5
Whisk in the prepared dry ingredients and cook for 1-2 minutes.
6
Slowly pour in the warm milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens.
7
Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheeses a handful at a time until melted.
8
Cook pasta until al dente, then drain and combine with the cheese sauce.
9
If baking, transfer to a greased baking dish.
10
Mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and a pinch of paprika, and sprinkle on top.
11
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
12
Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
13
Scoop into bowls and enjoy.