The Creamiest Homemade Mac and Cheese

French

When you’re craving comfort in its simplest form, nothing beats a bowl of creamy mac and cheese.

This quick stovetop version relies on a silky cheddar béchamel, a handful of everyday ingredients, and just a few minutes of preparation, perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a family-friendly meal that always brings smiles.

Homemade Mac and Cheese: Easy Stovetop Recipe with Cheddar Béchamel

Mac ’n’ cheese is one of those dishes that instantly brings everyone to the table.

Kids adore it, and I’ll admit, it’s also my lifesaver on evenings when inspiration runs low but I still want to serve something warm and comforting.

This version combines a classic béchamel with sharp cheddar to create a silky, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to every piece of pasta.

It feels indulgent yet remains wonderfully simple, making it perfect for busy home cooks who love dependable, fuss-free recipes.

What I enjoy most is how accessible it is: a quick stovetop method, no special equipment, and ingredients you’re almost guaranteed to have in your kitchen.

A handful of pasta, a bit of butter, milk, and cheese are truly all you need to transform an ordinary dinner into something cozy and satisfying.

In minutes, you get a mac ’n’ cheese that’s rich, creamy, and incredibly soothing, an easy family favorite that never fails to please children and adults alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Ultra-Creamy Mac and Cheese

Every ingredient plays a role in achieving the perfect texture, creamy, smooth, and just cheesy enough.

• 250 g elbow macaroni : Their hollow shape captures the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is coated.
• 25 g butter : The foundation of the béchamel; it adds richness and depth.
• 25 g flour : Essential for thickening the sauce and keeping it velvety.
• 250 ml whole milk : Helps create a smooth, luxurious base.
• 1 pinch ground nutmeg : Adds subtle warmth without overpowering the cheese.
• 1 teaspoon grated Parmesan (optional) : Boosts the savory flavor, use if you enjoy a deeper cheesy note.
• 1/8 teaspoon salt : Adjust to taste depending on the saltiness of your cheese.
• 1 pinch black pepper : Brings balance and a gentle kick.
• 2 cups sharp cheddar, freshly grated : The star of the recipe, sharp cheddar melts beautifully and delivers strong cheese flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Cheddar Béchamel Sauce

• Cook the pasta : Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside without rinsing to help the sauce cling better.
• Make the roux : Melt the butter over low heat, add the flour, and stir until it forms a smooth, pale mixture. Let it cook for 1-2 minutes without browning.
• Add the milk gradually : Remove the pan from the heat and whisk in a small amount of milk to avoid lumps. Return to the heat and pour the remaining milk slowly while whisking continuously until the sauce thickens.
• Season the sauce : Stir in the salt, pepper, nutmeg, and optional Parmesan until smooth and glossy.
• Melt the cheddar : Take the sauce off the heat and add the grated cheddar. Stir until fully melted and creamy.
• Combine with the pasta : Add the macaroni and mix gently until every piece is coated in the cheese sauce.
• Serve hot : Mac and cheese is at its best when served immediately while the sauce is still silky and smooth.

Helpful Tips for Even Better Mac and Cheese

– Choose a good-quality sharp cheddar : The more aged the cheese, the deeper the flavor and the richer the color. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

– Add a splash of pasta cooking water if the sauce thickens too much : The starch in the water loosens the sauce without thinning it too much and helps maintain a silky texture.

– Never rinse your pasta after cooking : The starch on the surface helps the sauce cling better, making the dish extra creamy.

– Stir in the cheese off the heat : This prevents the cheddar from separating or becoming grainy, especially if you’re using a strong or very sharp cheese.

– For a baked version : Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with cheddar or buttery breadcrumbs, and bake for 10 minutes until golden and crisp.

– Adjust the consistency before serving : If the sauce thickens as it cools, add a splash of warm milk or a spoonful of pasta water to bring it back to a creamy texture.

– Serve immediately : Mac and cheese is at its best when it’s still hot, smooth, and ultra-creamy.

– Customize to your taste : Add paprika, a touch of mustard, cayenne pepper, or even a spoonful of cream cheese for extra richness and flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Mac and Cheese

– Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container once completely cooled. It will keep for 2-3 days. The sauce naturally thickens as it sits, normal for cheese-based dishes.

– Freezer Storage

You can freeze mac and cheese for up to 2 months, ideally before baking.
Portioning it into individual containers makes reheating easier. Expect a slightly denser texture after thawing.

– How to Reheat Without Drying Out

• Microwave: Add a spoonful of milk or cream before reheating. Cover and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to bring back the creaminess.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat with a splash of milk, stirring until smooth.
• Oven: Cover with foil to prevent drying. Add a little milk to the dish and reheat at 160°C / 320°F for about 15 minutes.

– Bonus Tip

For an even creamier finish, add a bit of cheddar or a spoonful of cream while reheating, this restores richness without making the dish heavy.

Delicious Variations to Try

– Crunchy Topping Version: Add a buttery breadcrumb topping for a lightly crisp surface that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta beneath.

– Lighter Version: Replace part of the cheese with almond milk or a lighter dairy option for a softer, less rich sauce.

– Loaded Version: Add broccoli, spinach, or sautéed chicken to turn your mac and cheese into a complete, filling meal.

– Spicy Version: Boost the flavor with smoked paprika, a pinch of chili powder, or sliced jalapeños for a warm, flavorful kick.

Other comforting dishes to try

• Spaghetti Squash Pasta with Spinach and Mushrooms
• Eggplant Lasagna Recipe
• Beef Stroganoff