Easy Homemade Mac & Cheese (Creamy, Comforting & Family-Friendly)

A simple, creamy mac and cheese made with everyday ingredients — perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners. One-pot friendly and beginner-safe. Uses simple, affordable ingredients.

RECIPESFAMILY FAVOURITESBUDGET-FRIENDLY RECIPESONE-PAN MEALS

12/12/20251 min read

Creamy homemade mac and cheese
Creamy homemade mac and cheese

Prep: 10 minutes | Cook: 20 minutes | Total: 30 minutes | Serves: 4–6
Best For: Weeknight dinners, kids, comfort food cravings

An Easy Comfort Food Everyone Loves

This easy homemade mac and cheese is creamy, rich, and made with simple pantry staples. No fancy ingredients, no baking required — just a smooth cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta.

It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. Warm, comforting, and familiar, this mac and cheese is perfect for busy nights, shared family dinners, and moments of rest at home.

Ingredients for Easy Homemade Mac & Cheese

  • 500 g elbow macaroni or short pasta

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 2 tablespoons plain flour

  • 2 cups milk

  • 2 cups grated cheese (cheddar works best)

  • Salt, to taste

  • Pepper, to taste

Optional:

  • Garlic powder

  • Mustard powder

  • Extra cheese for topping

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to packet instructions. Drain and set aside.

  2. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.

  3. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until smooth.

  4. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens.

  5. Stir in the cheese until melted and smooth.

  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

  7. Add the cooked pasta and stir until fully coated.

  8. Serve warm and enjoy immediately.

Helpful Tips

  • Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce

  • Add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much

  • Mild cheeses work best for kids

  • This recipe doubles easily for larger families

Why This Recipe Works

  • Uses simple, affordable ingredients

  • One-pot friendly and beginner-safe

  • Ready in under 30 minutes

  • Loved by kids and adults alike

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