Cheese Macaroni Recipe

If you’re craving ultimate comfort food, this cheese macaroni recipe inspired by Ree Drummond delivers a rich, creamy, and cheesy dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This version combines a velvety cheese sauce with perfectly cooked pasta and a golden baked topping.

🧀 Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 4 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 whole egg (beaten)
• 4 tbsp butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 2½ cups whole milk
• 2 tsp dry mustard
• 1 pound cheddar cheese (grated)
• Salt (to taste)
• Seasoned salt (optional)
• ½ tsp black pepper

Optional Add-ins:

• Paprika or cayenne pepper
• Thyme or herbs
• Extra cheese for topping

👉 This combination creates a creamy sauce using a roux (butter + flour + milk) and melted cheese for richness.

Also Read: Quick Cottage Cheese Flatbread Recipe

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step How to Make

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil macaroni in salted water until slightly undercooked (al dente). Drain and set aside.
👉 Slightly firm pasta prevents mushy texture after baking.

Step 2: Prepare Egg Mixture

Beat the egg in a bowl and keep it ready.

Step 3: Make the Sauce Base

In a large pot:

• Melt butter
• Add flour and whisk continuously
• Cook for 3–5 minutes (don’t burn it)

Step 4: Add Milk & Thicken

Slowly pour in milk and whisk until smooth.
Add mustard and cook until the sauce becomes thick and creamy.

Step 5: Temper the Egg

Take a small portion of hot sauce and mix it slowly into the egg while whisking.
👉 This prevents the egg from scrambling.

Step 6: Add Cheese

• Pour egg mixture back into the sauce
• Add grated cheese
• Stir until melted and smooth

Season with salt, pepper, and spices.

Step 7: Combine with Pasta

Add cooked macaroni to the sauce and mix well.

Step 8: Bake (Optional but Recommended)

• Transfer to a buttered baking dish
• Top with extra cheese
• Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20–25 minutes until golden

👉 Baking gives a crispy top and enhances flavor.

Also Read: Baked Cream Cheese Chicken Taquitos

🍽️ Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

Values may vary depending on ingredients and portion size.

Also Read: String Bean Casserole Recipe

💡 Tips for Best Results

Use whole milk for extra creaminess

Always grate fresh cheese for better melting

Don’t skip mustard, it enhances cheese flavor without overpowering

Undercook pasta slightly before baking