Easy Homemade Macaroni and Cheese for Two is a creamy, cheesy stovetop comfort food made from scratch in just 20 minutes. This small-batch mac and cheese is perfectly portioned for two, making it ideal for couples, empty nesters, or an easy weeknight side dish.


Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 2


Ingredients for Easy Homemade Macaroni and Cheese for Two

  • 1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Optional garnish: chopped parsley or extra cheese

How to Make Easy Homemade Macaroni and Cheese for Two

  1. Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to form a smooth roux.
  3. Slowly whisk in the milk. Continue cooking for 2–3 minutes, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens.
  4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar cheese (and Parmesan, if using) until fully melted and smooth.
  5. Add salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Serve immediately.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

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Tips for Easy Homemade Macaroni and Cheese for Two

  • For extra creaminess, stir in 1 tablespoon cream cheese at the end.
  • Use half cheddar and half Monterey Jack for a smoother, milder sauce.
  • For baked mac and cheese, transfer to a small baking dish, top with cheese or breadcrumbs, and broil for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden.

What to Serve with Easy Homemade Macaroni and Cheese for Two

Cost Breakdown for Easy Homemade Macaroni and Cheese for Two

Estimated U.S. Average Costs:

  • Elbow macaroni: ~$0.50
  • Milk: ~$0.40
  • Cheddar cheese: ~$1.25
  • Butter, flour, seasonings: ~$0.50

Estimated Total:
Approximately $2.50–$3.00 total, or about $1.25–$1.50 per serving.

Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Homemade Macaroni and Cheese for Two

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly.

Why is my sauce grainy?
Keep the heat low when adding cheese and avoid boiling after it melts.

Can I reheat leftovers?
Yes. Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

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Comments

2 responses to “Easy Homemade Macaroni and Cheese for Two”

  1.  Avatar
    Anonymous

    It sure is good mac & cheese. I’m glad to see someone catering to cooking for two.

    1. Thank you. I sure appreciate your comment. I hope you have subscribed on YouTube and checked out my Pinterest Boards Both are netsmealsfortwo. I’m just getting started and need all the share, likes and subscribers I can get.

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