A bowl of warm, creamy American mac and cheese recipe has a certain allure. It’s cheesy, easy, and incredibly satisfying—comfort food at its best. This handmade stovetop version tastes much better than anything from a box and is really simple to prepare!

Total Time for American Mac and Cheese Recipe

Preparation Time	10 mins
Cock Time	20 mins
Total Time	30 mins
Servings	5

Ingredients for 2-3 Servings

• 2 cups of elbow macaroni, or any other type of pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole milk works best)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: garlic powder, mustard powder for a flavor boost

How To Make American Mac and Cheese Recipe

1. Boil the pasta: Cook macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the roux: In a saucepan, melt butter on medium heat. Cook for 1 minute after adding the flour, stirring often.
3. Add milk: Stirring, slowly pour in the milk. Simmer until thickened, 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Add cheese: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheese until smooth.
5. Mix it up: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce. Stir well until everything is coated.
6. Season: Add salt, pepper, and any optional spices. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips to Make it Even Better

• Use evaporated milk for a richer flavor.
• Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Want to bake it? Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and bake for 15 minutes at 375°F.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Kid-friendly
• Budget-friendly
• Ready in under 30 minutes
• No oven needed!

Important Notes for Perfect American Mac and Cheese Recipe:

1. Use Freshly Grated Cheese

• Anti-caking chemicals found in pre-shredded cheese stop it from melting smoothly. Grate your own cheddar for a creamier sauce.

2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta

• Boil pasta 1–2 minutes less than the package instructions. It will continue cooking when mixed with the hot sauce (or baked).

3. Make a Proper Roux

• Cook the butter and flour mixture for at least 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste before adding milk.

4. Warm the Milk

• Use warm or room temperature milk to help the sauce thicken faster and stay smooth.

5. Add Cheese Off Heat

• Turn off the heat before adding cheese to the sauce. Cheese may split or become gritty over high heat.

6. Season Well

• Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of mustard powder or paprika to enhance the cheesy flavor.

7. Extra Creamy Tip

• For an even creamier texture, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream along with the cheddar.

8. Optional Crunchy Topping

• If baking, top with buttered breadcrumbs or more cheese and bake until golden and bubbly.

9. Serve Immediately

• Fresh and hot mac and cheese tastes the best. It thickens as it cools.

Nutrition Facts of American Mac and Cheese Recipe

500	28g	40g	18g
Calories	Fat	Carbs	Protein

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