Macaroni cheese

This is such a quick and easy dinner that the whole family will enjoy — it’s cheap, filling and perfect for busy days. Macaroni cheese is one of those timeless comfort dishes that never fails to make everyone happy: creamy, bubbling and beautifully cheesy, the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug.

This version is wonderfully simple to make, with tender pasta coated in a rich, silky cheese sauce, making it an ideal midweek go‑to or a cosy weekend treat. With just a handful of everyday ingredients, you can create a creamy, golden bake that’s satisfying, nostalgic and endlessly comforting.

What goes well alongside this dish?

I love serving this with garlic bread and a simple crunchy salad for a bit of texture. And if you fancy it, you can add bacon too — just follow my bacon and macaroni cheese recipe.

Macaroni cheese

Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4 people

Ingredients
  

  • 350 g macaroni pasta
  • 40 g salted butter
  • 40 g plain flour
  • 600 ml semi skimmed milk
  • 250 g grated cheddar, plus extra for sprinkling
  • season with salt and pepper

Instructions
 

  • Cook the macaroni according to the packets instructions, drain and set aside. 
  • Whilst the marcaroni is cooking, make the sauce.  In a large saucepan, melt the butter over a medium heat.  With a large hand whisk add the flour and whisk continuously for a minute.  Top tip: I find using a large hand held balloon whisk, you are less likely to have lumps.
  • Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time. Cook for around 10 mins until thickened and smooth.
  • Remove the sauce from the hob, add the cheese and stir until it is well combined and melted and season.
  • Pre-heat the grill on a medium heat.
  • Add the macaroni to combine, tip into a oven proof dish.  Sprinkle with extra grated cheese.  Place under the grill until the cheese starts to melt and turns golden.  Serve immediately.