Easy Homemade Macaroni and Cheese

Creamy, comforting, and irresistibly cheesy, this Easy Homemade Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate weeknight dinner or side dish. Made with tender elbow macaroni coated in a luscious, velvety cheese sauce featuring a blend of sharp cheddar and melty mozzarella, this recipe comes together in just 30 minutes. A touch of Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that enhances the rich flavors, while the option of paprika garnish provides an inviting pop of color. Perfect for busy families or anyone in need of hearty comfort food, this one-pot wonder is designed to please every palate. Whether you're serving it as a standalone meal or pairing it with your favorite proteins, this macaroni and cheese is guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Nutriscore Rating: 53/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:30 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 0.5 teaspoons salt
• 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoons paprika (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. The mixture should be smooth and bubbly.

Step 3

Gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook the mixture for 2-3 minutes, or until it begins to thicken.

Step 4

Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese, one handful at a time, until melted and smooth.

Step 5

Stir in the Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly.

Step 7

Serve immediately. If desired, sprinkle with paprika for a touch of color and added flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1340.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3535.1

Total Fat 233.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 140.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5g
Cholesterol 714.0mg	0%
Sodium 3786.5mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 206.2g	0%
Dietary Fiber 8.4g	0%
Total Sugars 30.7g
Protein 132.0g	0%

Vitamin D 214.7IU	0%
Calcium 3037.4mg	0%
Iron 8.5mg	0%
Potassium 785.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 60.8%

Protein: 15.3%

Carbs: 23.9%