Homemade mac n cheese

The absolute best Homemade Mac N Cheese recipe you can make! The creaminess will drive you insane — it’s absolutely delicious with levels of flavor and a pinch of paprika! Topped with breadcrumbs and baked to perfection. Grab yourself a bowl and get ready to dive in to this easy, cheesy recipe!
OVEN: 325° | COOK: 15 M | BAKE: 15 M | SERVES: 8-10

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 lb elbow or shell noodles
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter + 2 tbsp, divided
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups milk, preferably whole
  • 4 cups white sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 tbsp salt
  • 2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

Directions

  1. Boil pasta according to the directions on the box before you begin and preheat your oven to 325°. Start by melting the butter in a pot over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add in the flour and whisk vigorously for about 2-3 minutes.
  2. Slowly pour in the milk and whisk until smooth. Let it come to a low boil until thickened, then turn the heat down to low.
  3. Add in 4 cups of the white sharp cheddar and 1 cup of sharp cheddar, half at a time. Mix into the sauce until completely melted before adding the other half. Make sure the heat is on low so the cheese doesn’t burn.
  4. Once the cheese is all melted and the consistency is thickened, mix in the salt, black pepper, and paprika. Taste and adjust to your preference.
  5. Drain your pasta and toss in the pot with the cheese sauce. Fold the noodles into the sauce and cook on low heat for just a few minutes. Spray a 9x13” pan with cooking spray and pour all the Mac N Cheese into the pan. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese all over the top.
  6. In a small saucepan, melt the 2 tbsp butter over medium heat and add the breadcrumbs. Stir constantly until the breadcrumbs are golden brown, then pour over the Mac N Cheese. Bake at 325° for 10-15 minutes.

ENJOY!