Easy Mac and Cheese Recipe – Creamy, Cheesy & Ready in Minutes
This Easy Mac and Cheese recipe is the ultimate go-to for when you need a quick, cozy meal with minimal effort. Made with simple ingredients and ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, last-minute lunches, or satisfying a comfort food craving. No baking, no roux—just creamy, cheesy goodness in one pot!
🛒 Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups whole milk
1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella or American cheese
2 tablespoons butter
½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
🔄 Substitutions
Pasta: Use shells, penne, or gluten-free pasta
Milk: Use evaporated milk, plant-based milk, or a mix of milk and cream
Cheese: Swap in Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack for a twist
Butter: Use margarine or a dairy-free alternative
Add-ins: Stir in cooked peas, ham, bacon, or broccoli
👨🍳 How to
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and return to the pot
Add butter and stir until melted
Pour in milk and place over low heat
Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper
Gradually add shredded cheeses, stirring constantly until melted and smooth
Remove from heat and let sit for 1–2 minutes to thicken before serving
🧀 Mix-ins
Cooked crumbled bacon
Sautéed mushrooms or onions
Steamed or roasted veggies
A dash of hot sauce or Dijon mustard
Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for crunch (add just before serving)
✅ Recipe Tips
Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt
Keep heat low when melting cheese to prevent clumping or graininess
Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente holds up better in the sauce
Add a splash more milk if it thickens too much while sitting
📦 Storage
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days
Reheat gently with a splash of milk on the stove or in the microwave
Not ideal for freezing, but can be done if well sealed and reheated with added liquid
🌀 Recipe Variations
Spicy mac: Add chili flakes or jalapeños
BBQ mac: Stir in shredded BBQ chicken
Buffalo mac: Add hot sauce and blue cheese crumbles
Italian-style: Use Parmesan and stir in pesto or sun-dried tomatoes
❓ FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time? It’s best fresh, but you can prep and reheat with extra milk
What’s the best cheese for mac and cheese? Sharp cheddar is classic, but mixing cheeses gives more depth
Can I use pre-shredded cheese? Yes, but it may not melt as smoothly due to anti-caking agents
Can I bake this version? Yes—just pour into a baking dish, top with cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes
This Easy Mac and Cheese recipe is creamy, cheesy, and totally fuss-free—a perfect quick meal for any night of the week.
