Homemade Mac and Cheese: Perfect Mac and Cheese Ingredients for Creamy Comfort Food

Homemade Mac and Cheese with mac and cheese ingredients You’ll Love

Welcome to the ultimate guide to mac and cheese ingredients—your one-stop resource for creating the creamiest, cheesiest baked macaroni comfort food from scratch.

Mac and Cheese Ingredients: What You Need

• 8 ounces uncooked elbow macaroni
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (room temperature)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ cup bread crumbs
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Mac and Cheese

1. Prepare the Oven and Pasta

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8–inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the elbow macaroni. Cook for 6–7 minutes until al dente, then drain and set aside.

2. Make the Roux

   In the same pot, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute until it forms a smooth paste. This roux will thicken your cheese sauce to silky perfection.

3. Create the Creamy Cheese Sauce

   Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 5–6 minutes until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat, then stir in shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth and velvety.

   Tip: Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce

   Gently fold the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring every piece is coated.

5. Assemble in the Baking Dish

   Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into your prepared baking dish. In a small bowl, mix bread crumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter until evenly moistened, then sprinkle over the top.

   • Pro Tip: For extra crunch, add a handful of panko breadcrumbs.

6. Bake Until Golden

   Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.

7. Let It Rest

   Allow the dish to cool for 5 minutes before serving—this helps the sauce set and makes it easier to scoop perfect portions.

8. Serve and Enjoy

   Dish out warm portions of gooey, creamy baked mac and cheese and watch everyone dig in!

Why This Recipe Works

With a simple roux, high-quality cheese, and a golden breadcrumb topping, this comfort food classic delivers unbeatable flavor and texture. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or anytime you crave rich, cheesy pasta bliss.

mac and cheese ingredients are the heart and soul of this easy yet indulgent recipe—so gather them all and get ready for comfort food perfection!

Source: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/11679/homemade-mac-and-cheese/