Home-Style Macaroni And Cheese
Creamy homemade macaroni and cheese with rich Cheddar and cream cheese, topped with crunchy bread crumbs—perfect comfort food for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 400°F.
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions and drain.
- In a 3-quart saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat.
- Stir in 3 tablespoons flour and cook, stirring occasionally, until smooth and bubbly.
- Gradually stir in 2 cups milk, then add 8 oz. softened cream cheese, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper, and 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked macaroni and 2 cups cubed Cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
- Pour the mixture into a 7-quart casserole dish.
- In a small bowl, combine 1 cup bread crumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake in the preheated oven until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream to the cheese sauce. If you're short on cheddar, you can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for a unique flavor. Adding a pinch of nutmeg can also enhance the dish's richness. For a crunchier topping, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular bread crumbs.
Serving Suggestions
This home-style macaroni and cheese pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for added protein and flavor. For a comforting side dish at gatherings, this recipe is perfect alongside classic American recipes like BBQ ribs or fried chicken.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover macaroni and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a baking dish covered with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Home-Style Macaroni And Cheese contains roughly 1332 calories, with 40g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 118g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (137% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (95% of the Daily Value), and calcium (92% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat macaroni instead of regular elbow macaroni?
Yes, whole wheat macaroni can be used for a healthier alternative. It will add a nuttier flavor and slightly different texture, but it will work well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for whole wheat pasta.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven. You might need to increase the baking time slightly.
What can I add to this recipe for extra flavor?
For added flavor, consider mixing in cooked bacon or diced ham, or sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. You can also stir in some hot sauce or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can also brighten the dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).