Small Batch Mac and Cheese Recipe for Creamy Comfort

Mac and cheese is a timeless comfort food loved by many, but sometimes making a large batch feels overwhelming or unnecessary. Whether you’re cooking for one or two, this small batch mac and cheese recipe is perfect for satisfying your cheesy cravings without any leftovers.

Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly portioned, this dish combines the best of classic flavors with a quick and easy preparation method.

In this post, you’ll learn how to whip up a delicious mac and cheese that’s smooth, rich, and made with simple pantry staples. From selecting the right cheese blend to tips on making it extra creamy, we’ve got you covered.

This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a cozy lunch, or a quick side that pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken or veggies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This small batch mac and cheese recipe is designed with simplicity and taste in mind. It’s quick to prepare, requiring just 20 minutes from start to finish.

No complicated steps or fancy ingredients—just wholesome, delicious goodness.

Perfect portion size: No more giant pots of mac and cheese that leave you eating the same meal for days. This recipe yields just enough for two servings, making it ideal for singles, couples, or small families.

Creamy and cheesy: Using a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella ensures a satisfying flavor and smooth texture every time. The béchamel sauce base adds a velvety richness that coats every noodle.

Customizable: Feel free to add mix-ins like crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to tailor it to your taste.

Ingredients

• 4 ounces elbow macaroni (about 1 cup)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a little heat

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander
• Mixing spoon
• Grater (if shredding your own cheese)

Instructions

1. Cook the macaroni: Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Make the roux: In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour until a smooth paste forms. Continue whisking for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste, but don’t let it brown.
3. Add the milk: Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Season the sauce: Stir in the Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and optional spices. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Incorporate the cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella until melted and smooth.
6. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained macaroni back into the cheese sauce. Stir gently until every piece is coated in cheesy goodness.
7. Serve immediately: Spoon the mac and cheese into bowls and enjoy while warm. For an extra touch, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a little extra cheese on top.

Tips & Variations

“For the creamiest mac and cheese, avoid overcooking the pasta and use whole milk or cream-based milk alternatives.”

Cheese choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as Gruyère, Fontina, or Monterey Jack for unique flavor profiles.

Make it crispy: If you love a crunchy topping, transfer the mac and cheese to a small oven-safe dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, then broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.

Add mix-ins: For extra protein or veggies, stir in cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, steamed broccoli, or caramelized onions before serving.

Use leftover pasta: If you have cooked pasta on hand, this recipe is a perfect way to transform leftovers into a fresh and tasty meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This small batch mac and cheese pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. For a hearty meal, serve alongside grilled chicken breasts or pan-seared salmon.

To keep it vegetarian, try pairing it with roasted vegetables such as asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or a crisp green salad.

It also works well as a side dish for barbecue or comfort food classics like meatloaf or fried chicken. Don’t forget a tangy pickle or some fresh fruit on the side to balance the richness.

Conclusion

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a loved one, this small batch mac and cheese recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy creamy, cheesy comfort food without the hassle of leftovers or large portions. The combination of sharp cheddar and mozzarella, enhanced by a smooth béchamel sauce, creates a perfectly balanced and satisfying dish.

Easy to prepare, versatile, and delicious, this recipe can be a go-to for quick weeknight dinners or whenever you crave something cozy and comforting.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses, spices, and mix-ins to make this recipe your own. And if you enjoyed this, be sure to check out our other favorites like Classic Beef Stew, Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, and Lemon Herb Roasted Chicken for more delicious meal ideas.

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