Comfort Food Mac And Cheese

Name: Comfort Food Mac And Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 cups milk; 1/4 cup butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Highlighted under: Warm Family Favorites

I love indulging in a creamy, cheesy bowl of mac and cheese, especially when it’s homemade! This recipe offers a delightful blend of rich flavors and textures that bring me pure comfort. The combination of three cheeses gives a depth that store-bought versions simply can’t match. Plus, it’s an easy dish to prepare, making it a perfect family favorite for any occasion. Whether I’m cozying up on a rainy day or entertaining friends, this mac and cheese never fails to please everyone at the table!

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-24T09:49:08.522Z

During a particularly chilly evening, my craving for comfort food led me to whip up this mac and cheese recipe. The trick I discovered is to combine different cheeses: sharp cheddar for that sharp flavor, creamy mozzarella for stretchiness, and a bit of parmesan for a rich finish. The result was a melty, gooey delight!

I also like to add a breadcrumb topping for texture. Baking the dish for a few minutes gives it a lovely golden crust, which provides a wonderful contrast to the creamy pasta underneath. It’s a delightful feast every time!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Ultimate creaminess that warms your soul
Rich blend of flavors from multiple cheeses
Perfectly crispy topping for that added crunch

Perfecting Your Cheese Sauce

One of the key elements of this mac and cheese is the cheese sauce, which requires careful attention to avoid lumpy textures. When making the roux, ensure that you whisk the flour into the melted butter until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. This should take about 2 minutes over medium heat. Gradually adding the milk while continuing to whisk will help create a smooth base, so don’t skip this step! You'll know it's ready when it coats the back of a spoon and becomes glossy.

The choice of cheeses in this recipe is crucial for achieving the optimal flavor profile. Sharp cheddar provides a bold taste that defines the dish, while mozzarella contributes creaminess and stretch. Parmesan not only enhances flavor with its nutty notes but also adds a lovely saltiness. Feel free to experiment—substituting Gruyère for cheddar or mixing in smoked cheeses can create new taste dimensions. Just remember that balancing creamy and sharp flavors makes the dish truly memorable.

Baking and Serving Suggestions

If you opt for the baked version, the addition of breadcrumbs is what offers that irresistible crunch. Mix the breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling them over the top of the macaroni and cheese. This not only helps the topping to brown beautifully but it also enhances flavor. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, watching for the edges to turn golden and the sauce to bubble, indicating it's ready to serve.

This mac and cheese is versatile when it comes to serving options. For a hearty meal, consider pairing it with a side salad or roasted vegetables. If desired, you can transform it into a one-pot dish by adding cooked proteins like chicken or even crispy bacon. Another fun idea is to incorporate seasonal vegetables, such as sautéed spinach or roasted broccoli, into the mix for added nutrition and color!

Ingredients

Mac and Cheese Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
2 cups milk
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook, whisking constantly for about 2 minutes. Gradually add the milk, stirring until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and mix in the cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese until melted.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Bake (Optional)

If using breadcrumbs, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Enjoy Your Dish!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms or broccoli into the cheese mixture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This mac and cheese stores beautifully in the fridge, making it a great make-ahead option. After it has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container where it can be kept for up to 3-4 days. If you're looking to freeze it for a longer period, ensure that it is tightly sealed in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, adding a splash of milk if it appears dry.

When reheating leftovers, be cautious not to overheat in the microwave, as the cheese sauce can separate. Instead, consider reheating in a skillet on low heat, stirring gently and adding a touch of milk to maintain creaminess. This method helps to evenly rewarm the dish and keep its texture as close to freshly made as possible.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cheese sauce turns out grainy, it could be due to cooking the cheese over too high of heat or adding it too quickly. Always reduce the heat to low when incorporating cheese; it should melt gradually. If the sauce is too thick, simply whisk in a bit more milk until you reach your desired consistency, remembering to heat it gently to avoid clumping.

Should you find your mac and cheese lacking in flavor after mixing, don’t hesitate to season more generously with salt and pepper. It’s important to taste as you go, especially when using unsalted butter or low-salt cheese options. Adding a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of mustard powder can also brighten the overall flavor profile and give the dish a bit of kick!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta for a delicious alternative.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

→ Can I freeze mac and cheese?

Yes! Freeze in portions; just make sure to allow it to cool completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers.

→ What types of cheese can I use?

Feel free to mix and match! Gouda, fontina, or even blue cheese can add unique flavors to your mac and cheese.