When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a warm, creamy bowl of real cheddar mac and cheese. At Sincere Scribbles, we believe in crafting dishes with rich, honest flavors, and this Southern-style Real Cheddar Mac & Cheese is all about the goodness of real ingredients. Unlike the powdered stuff from a box, this recipe uses mild cheddar cheese, creamy whole milk, and a touch of butter to create a luscious, soul-warming meal that will have you ditching store-bought versions forever. Let’s dive into this classic mac and cheese recipe that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Why Real Cheddar Mac & Cheese Tastes Better
If you’ve only tried store-bought mac and cheese, you’re in for a treat! This homemade Real Cheddar Mac & Cheese delivers an indulgent, creamy texture and robust cheddar flavor that just can’t be matched by boxed versions. With mild cheddar cheese that melts perfectly, whole milk for richness, and a hint of real butter for depth, this recipe is everything you crave in comfort food. Plus, it’s super easy to make and uses just a handful of ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
Real Cheddar Mac & Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni noodles
- 4 cups mild cheddar cheese (shredded for easy melting)
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp real butter
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Water (for boiling the noodles)
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding a pinch of salt to enhance the noodles’ flavor. Add the elbow macaroni noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 7–8 minutes. Drain the noodles and set them aside. - Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the milk and heat until it’s warm, stirring occasionally. Slowly add in 3 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it’s completely melted and smooth. - Season and Combine
Season the cheese sauce with salt and black pepper. Add the drained macaroni noodles to the sauce, gently folding until the noodles are coated in the creamy cheese goodness. - Finish and Serve
Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese on top. Pop it under the broiler for a couple of minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve warm, and watch everyone dive in!
Tips for the Real Cheddar Mac & Chees
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can sometimes contain anti-caking agents that affect melting. For the best texture, shred the cheese yourself.
- Control the Creaminess: Want an extra-creamy mac and cheese? Add a splash more of milk or a touch more butter to make it even richer.
Why Real Ingredients Matter
Using real cheddar cheese, whole milk, and butter not only gives this mac and cheese a silky, authentic taste but also makes it heartier and more filling. This dish is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or any time you’re craving something cozy and indulgent.
This Southern-style Real Cheddar Mac & Cheese is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly unforgettable. Say goodbye to powdered cheese packets and say hello to a mac and cheese that’s rich, creamy, and entirely satisfying. Make this once, and it will become a staple in your home.
So go ahead, grab that cheddar, and prepare to savor every delicious bite. Your taste buds will thank you!
Real Cheddar Mac & Cheese
Equipment
- 1 large pot
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni noodles
- 4 cups mild cheddar cheese (shredded for easy melting)
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp real butter
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Water (for boiling the noodles)
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, adding a pinch of salt to enhance the noodles' flavor. Add the elbow macaroni noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 7–8 minutes. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the milk and heat until it’s warm, stirring occasionally. Slowly add in 3 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it’s completely melted and smooth.
- Season and Combine: Season the cheese sauce with salt and black pepper. Add the drained macaroni noodles to the sauce, gently folding until the noodles are coated in the creamy cheese goodness.
- Finish and Serve: Transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese on top. Pop it under the broiler for a couple of minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve warm, and watch everyone dive in!
