Mac and Cheese Recipe for Two: Easy, Baked, N’ Creamy

Macaroni and cheese is not only the quintessential comfort food, it’s also a great date night dinner!

Whether it’s a cozy night in or you’re looking to treat yourself and someone special, cooking the perfect mac and cheese recipe for two doesn’t require a huge list of ingredients or hours in the kitchen. In fact, it’s quite the opposite; it’s a pretty simple process that brings delicious results!

Homemade mac and cheese for two isn’t just about halving the ingredients of a larger recipe. It’s about understanding the right ratios and baking time to maintain that desirable creamy texture and golden crust.

Plus, the beauty of making it from scratch is that you know exactly what’s going into your meal, and you can tailor it to your own tastes.

Let’s walk through the steps to make this indulgent dish a reality in your kitchen.

Key Takeaways

• Crafting homemade mac and cheese is simple and adds a personal touch to this classic comfort dish.
• The balance of ingredients and baking time is essential for a creamy texture and golden crust.
• A concise mac and cheese recipe for two can provide an intimate and delightful dining experience.

Ingredients List

To whip up a comforting batch of mac and cheese for two, gather these kitchen essentials:

• 
  

  Pasta: 1 cup of elbow macaroni works best, providing that classic shape we all love.

  
  

• Cheeses: Mix it up for the best flavor! I recommend:

  • 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, for that tangy taste.
  • 1/4 cup white cheddar, shredded, to add creaminess.
  • 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, grated, for a nutty finish.

• Sauce Base:

  • 1 cup of whole milk will give the sauce a rich texture.
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour to thicken the cheese sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter for cooking the roux.
• 
  

  Seasonings: Sprinkle a pinch of salt, pepper, and a dash of mustard powder for a bit of warmth in the flavor profile.

  
  

• Extras: (Optional)

  • A hint of garlic powder for an extra kick.
  • Cayenne pepper, red chili flakes, or nutmeg for those who like a spicy or earthy note.

Remember to always taste as you go and adjust the seasonings according to your preference.

This straightforward combination will give you a rich and creamy mac and cheese that has just the right balance of flavors, not to mention a delightful mix of textures from the creaminess of the cheese sauce to the slight crust on top if you choose to bake it with a handful of bread crumbs!

Keep an eye on the saturated fat and sodium content; adjust the cheese types and amounts if needed for dietary preferences.

Enjoy perfecting your homemade mac and cheese for two!

Preparation Instructions

Before you begin, make sure you have a 1-qt. baking dish ready. You’ll be baking your mac and cheese in this, so it’s crucial!

1. 
   

   Preheat your oven to 350°F which will be the perfect temperature to bake your mac and cheese into that delicious golden brown we all love.

   
   

2. Grab a medium-sized mixing bowl and combine:

   • Your dry pasta (preferably elbow or cavatappi) – these shapes hold onto the cheese best!
   • The cheese of your choice. I adore a good sharp cheddar for a classic taste.
   • Milk, an egg, and a pinch of salt for flavor.
3. 
   

   Pour the mixture into the greased baking dish. Feel free to dot the top with butter for extra richness.

   
   

Cook Time: Expect to bake it for about 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you can insert a knife in the center and it comes out clean.

Meanwhile, if you’re into making a creamy sauce on the stove, you can start with a roux.

Over low heat in a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in some flour. The roux will thicken your milk and cheese mixture, making the sauce creamy and dreamy.

When the pasta is perfectly al dente according to package directions, mix it into your creamy sauce, and then into the baking dish it goes.

Don’t rush the prep; it’s an easy recipe, but it deserves your love.

Total time from start to finish is likely around 45 minutes, making it an ideal project for a cozy lunch or dinner for two!

Baking Process

When I whip up a batch of baked mac and cheese for two, my kitchen instantly fills with anticipation.

The key to that irresistibly cheesy and gooey comfort food is all in the baking process.

Before anything, I always remember to preheat the oven—usually, 350°F works like a charm for a perfectly golden crust.

As the oven heats, I focus on my casserole dish.

Choosing the right baking dish is vital because it cradles your cooked pasta and creamy cheese sauce, transforming them into that iconic dish everyone craves.

I typically use a 7×5-inch dish, just the right size for a couple’s course or side dish.

Ingredient	Instruction
Cooked Pasta	Layer evenly in the dish.
Creamy Cheese Sauce	Pour over pasta, stir gently.
Parmesan & Bread Crumbs	Sprinkle on top for extra crunch.

Once my mac and cheese assembly is complete, into the oven it goes.

The transformation is magical—a bubbly, golden crust forms thanks to the layer of Parmesan and bread crumbs I sprinkled on top.

I usually bake it for about 20 to 25 minutes, but I keep a close eye on it because every oven is different, and I’m looking for that ideal blend of bubbly and browned.

The moment I pull the dish out and witness the creamy interior beneath the crispy top, I know my mission is accomplished.

That’s the simple joy of making baked mac and cheese—the wait feels long, but the results are always worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions

In my experience, knowing the ins and outs can help you whip up the perfect mac and cheese for two, whether it’s creamy or baked to perfection.

How can I create a creamy mac and cheese for two?

To make mac and cheese creamy, I use a blend of milk or cream with a thickening agent like flour to create my roux.

Then, I gradually stir in cheeses that melt well, such as cheddar and Gruyère, until the sauce is velvety smooth.

Heating gently is key to avoiding separation.

What’s the best way to bake mac and cheese for a small serving?

For a small serving, I preheat my oven to about 375°F and use a smaller dish, like a 7×5-inch one.

Baking for a shorter time, around 20 minutes, will yield a golden, crispy topping without overcooking the pasta underneath.

How much pasta do I need for a mac and cheese serving for two?

When I’m cooking for two, I measure out about 1 to 1.5 cups of dry pasta.

That amount typically expands to the perfect size for a hearty mac and cheese meal without making too much.

Can you recommend two cheeses that pair well for a mac and cheese dish?

For a rich and flavorful mac and cheese, I love using a combination of sharp cheddar for its assertive flavor, and Gruyère for its smooth melting quality and slightly nutty taste.

Is it possible to make a tasty mac and cheese on the stovetop for two?

Absolutely! I often prefer the stovetop method for a quick meal.

Using medium heat, I melt butter, blend in flour to form a roux, then whisk in milk until thickened.

The key is to stir in the grated cheese until it’s just melted and season with salt and pepper to taste.

What cheeses should I avoid when making mac and cheese?

I stay away from overly processed cheese products. They can affect the texture and taste negatively.

Cheeses that are too oily or don’t melt well, like halloumi or feta, tend to not work as great in a mac and cheese.