This Creamy Mac and Cheese Got Me Through College

As a college student, I often found myself juggling classes, part-time jobs, and a social life that sometimes felt overwhelming. Amidst the chaos, there was one dish that became my saving grace: creamy mac and cheese. This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl, a reminder of home, and a delicious way to fuel my late-night study sessions. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this mac and cheese became my go-to dish, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Why This Recipe Works

There are countless mac and cheese recipes out there, but this one stands out for several reasons:

Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses basic pantry staples that are easy to find and affordable, making it perfect for a college budget.
Quick Preparation: With a total time of under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy students who need a quick meal without sacrificing flavor.
Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions, whether you want to add vegetables, proteins, or different cheeses.
Comfort Food Factor: The creamy, cheesy goodness is not only satisfying but also evokes nostalgia, making it a perfect dish for those stressful college days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe serves 4 and takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook.

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Roux: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a paste.
Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Add Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated. Serve immediately for the best texture.

My Pro Tips for Success

Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
Add-Ins: Consider adding cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Bake It: For a crispy topping, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just reheat in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to eat.

What I Serve With This Recipe

Steamed broccoli for a healthy side
Garlic bread for a comforting meal
Simple green salad to balance the richness
Grilled chicken for added protein

FAQs (From My Kitchen to Yours)

Can I use gluten-free pasta? Absolutely! Just substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta, and follow the same cooking instructions.

How can I make this dish vegetarian? This recipe is already vegetarian! Just ensure that the cheese you use is rennet-free if you want it to be strictly vegetarian.

Can I freeze mac and cheese? Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? The oven is best for reheating, as it helps maintain the creamy texture. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.

Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot on Your Table

This creamy mac and cheese recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a nostalgic reminder of my college days filled with late-night study sessions and laughter with friends. Its simplicity, versatility, and comforting flavors make it a dish that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re a busy student or just someone looking for a quick and satisfying meal, this recipe deserves a spot on your table. Trust me; once you try it, you’ll understand why it became my culinary lifeline during college!

Your Turn

I invite you to try this creamy mac and cheese recipe and make it your own! Feel free to share your experiences, variations, or any tips you discover along the way. Cooking is all about creativity, and I can’t wait to hear how this dish becomes a part of your culinary journey!

Creamy Mac and Cheese

A rich and creamy mac and cheese recipe that became a comforting staple during college years. Simple to prepare and irresistibly cheesy.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 15 min | Total: 25 min

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a paste.
Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens, about 3–5 minutes.
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated. Serve immediately for the best texture.

Nutrition

Calories: 450 kcal
Fat: 22 g
Carbs: 45 g
Protein: 20 g

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