This Easy Mac and Cheese is a creamy, dreamy comfort food classic made simpler than ever—no flour needed! In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a velvety, indulgent dish with perfectly tender pasta and a rich, cheesy sauce that clings to every bite. The blend of sharp cheddar and smooth cream creates a flavor that’s both bold and comforting, while the golden finish adds a touch of irresistible texture. It’s the ultimate quick fix for busy days or when you’re craving something cozy and satisfying.
With 20 grams of protein per serving, this dish is as nourishing as it is delicious. The gooey cheese melts into a luscious sauce, while the pasta stays delightfully al dente, offering the perfect balance of softness and bite. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a midnight snack, this mac and cheese is guaranteed to hit the spot. Plus, it’s ready in the time it takes to boil water—because comfort food shouldn’t be complicated!
What You’ll Need for Easy Mac and Cheese
- 8 oz (227 g) dried macaroni (about 2 cups)
- 1 cup (235 ml) whole milk
- 2 Tablespoons (30 g) salted or unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ – ½ teaspoon ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon ground mustard (optional, for tanginess)
- 1 cup (113 g) freshly shredded cheddar cheese (pre-shredded works too)
- 4 slices (113 g) American cheese (for creaminess)
How to Make Easy Mac and Cheese
- Cook the pasta: Bring 3 cups of well-salted water to a boil in a medium saucepan over high heat. Add the macaroni, return to a boil, and cook for 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Strain the pasta, discarding the water, and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: Return the saucepan to the burner. Add the milk, butter, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and ground mustard. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until the butter is fully melted.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Return the cooked pasta to the saucepan and stir well to coat.
- Add the cheese: Add the shredded cheddar and American cheese. Let it sit for 30 seconds to slightly melt, then stir until the noodles are fully coated. Do not increase the heat to avoid clumping.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy as is or stir in your favorite add-ins (like bacon) right before serving.
Cheesy Add-Ins and Toppings to Elevate Your Mac
Take your mac and cheese to the next level with tasty mix-ins and toppings! Stir in crispy bacon bits, sautéed garlic mushrooms, or steamed broccoli florets for added flavor and texture. For a crunchy finish, sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before serving. Feeling adventurous? Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick!
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Your Mac
This creamy mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. It’s also a great companion to grilled chicken, pulled pork, or BBQ ribs for a hearty dinner. For a casual lunch, enjoy it with a bowl of tomato soup—it’s a classic combo!
Storing and Reheating Like a Pro
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk to the mac and cheese and warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until creamy. Avoid microwaving without milk, as it can dry out the cheese sauce. For best results, reheat gently to maintain that smooth, velvety texture.
Quick Tips for a Flawless Mac and Cheese
For the creamiest results, use freshly shredded cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded, as it melts better. Keep the heat low when adding the cheese to prevent it from becoming grainy. If you’re short on time, prep your ingredients beforehand—measure out the milk, butter, and spices so everything is ready to go when the pasta is cooked!
Got Questions? We’ve Got Answers!
Wondering if you can use skim milk?
Yes, but whole milk gives the creamiest texture.
Can you swap the American cheese?
Absolutely—try Gouda or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
Need to make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta—this recipe already skips the flour! Have more questions? Feel free to experiment and make it your own!
Easy Mac and Cheese (No flour needed!)
Ingredients
- 8 oz (227 g) dried macaroni (about 2 cups)
- 1 cup (235 ml) whole milk
- 2 Tablespoons (30 g) salted or unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ – ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
- 1 cup (113 g) freshly shredded cheddar cheese see note
- 4 slices (113 g) American Cheese see note
Instructions
- Bring 3 cups of well-salted water to a boil in a medium-saucepan over high heat.
- Once water comes to boil, add pasta, return to a boil, and cook 7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Strain pasta, discarding the water. Leave the pasta in the strainer and return the saucepan to your burner.
- Combine milk, butter, salt, pepper and paprika and mustard in the saucepan over medium-low heat and stir frequently over low heat until butter is melted.
- Return pasta to saucepan and stir well.
- Add cheeses, allow to sit about 30 seconds until slightly melty and then stir until all noodles are coated. Don’t turn up the heat or the cheese will not melt properly.
- Serve immediately. Stir in any desired add-ins (such as bacon) immediately before serving.