Real Cheddar Mac & Cheese
Discover the best Southern Real Cheddar Mac & Cheese recipe made with creamy mild cheddar, whole milk, and real butter. Perfect comfort food for every occasion!
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!