Sunday Creamy Mac and Cheese

Name: Sunday Creamy Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; ½ cup Fontina cheese, shredded; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely adore making Sunday Creamy Mac and Cheese for my family every weekend. There’s just something so comforting about the combination of gooey cheese and perfectly cooked pasta. I’ve spent years perfecting this recipe, and each batch brings back memories of laughter around the dinner table. With just a few simple ingredients, I can create a creamy, rich dish that everyone loves. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for lazy afternoons or special gatherings.

Created by

Autumn Pierce

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:13:10.623Z

When I first started making mac and cheese, I tried every box mix on the market, but nothing compared to homemade. I experimented with different types of cheese, and found that a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy Fontina creates the perfect flavor balance. Using a roux to make the cheese sauce ensures a smooth, luxurious texture that clings to each noodle beautifully.

One tip I learned along the way is to bake it with a breadcrumb topping. This not only adds a crunchy contrast to the creamy interior but also elevates the dish for special occasions. It’s this simple addition that transforms my mac and cheese into a crowd-pleaser every time.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, cheesy flavor that everyone craves
Creamy texture that’s irresistibly satisfying
Great for family gatherings or a cozy night in

      

Perfecting the Cheese Sauce

The key to a rich and creamy cheese sauce lies in the roux. When melting the butter, ensure that it doesn't brown; keep the heat on medium to prevent burning. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour and let it cook for about two minutes to remove the raw flour taste. The mixture should become light and slightly bubbly, indicating it’s ready for the milk. Gradually adding milk while whisking helps prevent lumps, creating a silky texture that forms the foundation of your mac and cheese.

When it comes to the cheese selection, sharp cheddar provides a punch of flavor, while Fontina adds creaminess and a delightful melt. Shred the cheese yourself if possible, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce's smoothness. Once you see that the cheese is bubbly and fully incorporated, it should be a golden, glossy sauce; this is the perfect stage for combining with your pasta.

Baking for a Crispy Top

If you choose to bake the mac and cheese, using breadcrumbs on top will create a beautiful, crunchy layer that contrasts perfectly with the creamy pasta below. For added flavor, consider toasting the breadcrumbs in melted butter before sprinkling them on top; this will enhance their golden color and improve the texture. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes to get that golden top, keeping an eye on it to avoid over-browning. The edges should bubble, and the top should be slightly crusty when done.

This baking step is also versatile; feel free to mix in herbs or spices like paprika or garlic powder with the breadcrumbs for an extra flavor boost. I often like to experiment with different cheeses or mix-ins like cooked bacon or sautéed veggies, which elevate the dish and make it even heartier. Just remember, if you add additional ingredients, ensure they’re pre-cooked to maintain the creamy structure of the mac and cheese.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious mac and cheese!

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup Fontina cheese, shredded
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps for an easy homemade mac and cheese!

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, boil salted water and add the elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 2 minutes. Gradually add the milk while whisking, and continue cooking until the sauce thickens.

Stir in the cheddar and Fontina cheese until melted.

Combine

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until fully coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Bake (Optional)

If using, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Let it cool slightly before serving for the best texture!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor twist, consider adding cooked bacon or diced tomatoes to the mix before baking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Making this mac and cheese ahead of time is incredibly convenient, especially for busy weekends or gatherings. You can prepare the cheese sauce and macaroni a day in advance. Simply store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. When you’re ready to indulge, mix the components together, then transfer to a baking dish and bake. This method saves time and still delivers that delicious, just-made quality.

Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, scoop individual portions into a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of milk to restore the creaminess, then heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. If you're looking to freeze it, let it cool completely before transferring to freezer bags. It will last for about two months, but keep in mind that the texture may slightly change during freezing.

Variations to Try

This recipe serves as a fantastic base for numerous variations. For a twist, consider adding sautéed spinach or roasted broccoli for a pop of color and nutrition. You could also attempt a different cheese blend; try using Gruyère for complexity or smoked gouda for a unique flavor profile. Additionally, if spice is your thing, a dash of cayenne pepper or jalapeños could kick up the heat a notch.

If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you could substitute half of the pasta with cauliflower or zucchini noodles. These substitutions not only lower the carbohydrate content but also add a fresh taste and texture to your dish. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as these veggies require less time to cook compared to traditional pasta.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely! Just substitute the elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the cheese sauce and pasta, combine, and store in the fridge. Bake when ready to serve.

→ What types of cheese can I use?

Feel free to experiment! Gruyère, mozzarella, or any favorite cheese can be swapped in.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.