When I think of comfort food, the first thing that comes to mind is my grandma's creamy mac and cheese.

It's a dish that both kids and adults love.

This recipe has been in our family for generations. My grandma learned it from her mother, and now I'm sharing it with you. It's not just a meal; it's a hug in a bowl.

What makes this mac and cheese so special is its perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and simple, wholesome ingredients. There's no fancy stuff here - just good old-fashioned comfort food at its best.

This isn't your average boxed mac and cheese. It's rich, indulgent, and oh-so-satisfying. The sauce is velvety smooth, coating each piece of pasta perfectly.

And the top? It gets golden and crispy in the oven, adding a delightful texture contrast.

You can make it for a cozy family dinner, take it to potlucks, or serve it at holiday gatherings.

Jump to:

• Why You'll Love This Grandma's Best Creamy Mac & Cheese Ever
• Tips
• The Ingredients
• How to Make Grandma's Best Creamy Mac & Cheese Ever
• What to Serve With Grandma's Best Creamy Mac & Cheese Ever
• Substitutions
• FAQs
• 📖 Recipe
• 💬 Comments

Why You'll Love This Grandma's Best Creamy Mac & Cheese Ever

You'll fall head over heels for this mac and cheese recipe. It's the perfect comfort food - creamy, cheesy, and absolutely satisfying. This isn't just a side dish; it's the star of the show.

This recipe is incredibly easy to make. You don't need to be a master chef to whip up this delicious dish. With just a few simple steps, you'll have a homemade meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare.

If you're looking for a crowd-pleaser, this is it. Kids love it, adults love it - I've never met anyone who could resist a good helping of this mac and cheese. It's the ultimate potluck dish or family dinner staple.

Tips

Don't overcook your pasta. Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This way, you'll avoid mushy mac and cheese.

For the creamiest sauce, grate your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy. Fresh-grated cheese melts much more smoothly.

Let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the sauce to set a bit, making it easier to serve and even more delicious.

The Ingredients

Pasta

Elbow macaroni is the classic choice for mac and cheese. Its small, curved shape holds the cheese sauce perfectly. You could use other short pasta shapes like shells or cavatappi if you prefer.

Cheese

A mix of sharp cheddar and gruyere gives this mac and cheese its rich, complex flavor. The cheddar provides that classic mac and cheese taste, while the gruyere adds a nutty depth. Always use good quality cheese for the best flavor.

Milk and Cream

Whole milk and heavy cream create the base for our ultra-creamy sauce. The fat content in these dairy products is key to achieving that luxurious texture we're after.

Butter and Flour

These two ingredients form the roux, which thickens our cheese sauce. It's the secret to a smooth, creamy mac and cheese that's never grainy or separated.

How to Make Grandma's Best Creamy Mac & Cheese Ever

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for about a minute to make a roux. Gradually add milk and cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Remove the pan from heat and stir in the grated cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce. Transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with extra cheese if desired. Bake in a preheated oven until bubbly and golden on top.

What to Serve With Grandma's Best Creamy Mac & Cheese Ever

• Green salad with vinaigrette dressing
• Steamed broccoli or peas
• Crispy bacon bits
• Grilled chicken breast
• Garlic bread

Substitutions

• Use gluten-free pasta and flour for a gluten-free version
• Try different cheese combinations like mozzarella and parmesan
• Add breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch
• Mix in cooked vegetables like spinach or butternut squash for added nutrition

FAQs

Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it up to a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it's cold from the fridge.

How do I reheat leftover mac and cheese?

The best way is to reheat it in the oven. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry.

Can I freeze this mac and cheese?

While you can freeze it, the texture may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. If you do freeze it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

 

📖 Recipe