Cheapest Mac And Cheese Recipe Under $2 Best Choice

Ever crave a comforting bowl of mac and cheese but don’t want to spend more than a couple of bucks? You’re not alone! Whether you’re a college student, cooking on a tight budget, or just love a good frugal food hack, this Cheapest Mac and Cheese Recipe Under $2 will become your go-to. It’s creamy, cheesy, satisfying and uses pantry staples you likely already have. No boxed mix here just real ingredients, real flavor, and real savings. Let’s dive into the magic of turning a dollar store grocery haul into a hearty, homemade meal!

Key Benefits:

Ultra-Affordable: Costs under $2 total for 2 servings yes, really!

Easy & Quick: With little work, it’s prepared in less than 15 minutes.

Pantry-Friendly: Makes use of items you most likely already own.

Customizable: Easily adaptable with spices, veggies, or leftover proteins.

No Oven Needed: One-pot stovetop magic perfect for small kitchens or dorm rooms.

Ingredients (Budget breakdown included):

Total estimated cost: $1.89 for 2 servings (prices may vary slightly by location):

One cup elbow macaroni – ~$0.25

1 tablespoon butter or margarine – ~$0.10

1 tablespoon all purpose flour (optional, for roux) – ~$0.03

3/4 cup milk (whole or 2%) – ~$0.20

3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or processed cheese) – ~$1.00

Salt and pepper, to taste – negligible cost

Optional: Garlic powder, mustard powder, paprika – for extra flavor

Ingredients organized in bowls for making mac and cheese. — All you need are simple, inexpensive ingredients to create a satisfying mac and cheese.

Instructions:

Follow these simple steps to create creamy, delicious mac and cheese on a dime:

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.

Cook the elbow macaroni for 6 to 8 minutes, or until it’s al dente.

Drain and set aside.

Make a Simple Cheese Sauce:

In the same saucepan, place the margarine over medium heat.

(Optional) To create an instant roux, which stir in the flour.To get rid of the floury taste, cook for one minute.
Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly until smooth.

Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.

Add the Cheese:

Lower the heat and stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth.

Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices (like garlic powder or paprika).

Combine & Serve:

Add the cooked macaroni back into the pot.

Stir until pasta is fully coated in the cheesy sauce.

Serve hot and enjoy!

Collage of nine images showing the step-by-step process of making mac and cheese in a pot on the stove. — Making homemade mac and cheese doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. Follow these easy steps!

Pro Tips and Variations:

No butter or milk? Use a bit of pasta water with some oil and cheese for a silky finish.

Add protein: Toss in canned tuna, shredded chicken, or chopped hot dogs for a heartier meal.

Spice it up: Mix in red pepper flakes, sriracha, or hot sauce for a kick.

Stretch it further: Add frozen peas or canned corn to bulk it up.

Go vegan: Use plant-based margarine, almond milk, and vegan cheese alternatives.

No flour? Skip the roux! Just melt cheese into milk directly.

Serving Suggestions:

Solo comfort meal: Pair with a slice of toast or a fried egg for extra protein.

Side dish: Serve with baked chicken, BBQ, or even scrambled eggs.

Budget meal prep: Double or triple the recipe and portion it out for grab-and-go lunches.

Top it off: Add crushed crackers, breadcrumbs, or crispy onions for texture.

Conclusion:

You don’t need a fancy kitchen or deep pockets to make something delicious. This cheapest mac and cheese under $2 proves that budget-friendly cooking can still be rich in flavor and comfort. Try it once, and it might just become your new weekly staple. Save money. Eat better. Feel good

Mac and cheese in a white bowl. — Quick dinner meal.

FAQs:

Q: Can I use water instead of milk?
A: A: That is true, but the sauce you make will have less creaminess. Adding a splash of pasta water can help.

Q: What’s the cheapest cheese that still melts well?
A: Processed cheddar or American cheese slices are affordable and melt beautifully.

Q: Can I microwave this instead of using the stove?
A: Yes! Cook the pasta in a microwave-safe bowl, and make a quick cheese sauce in another bowl before combining.

Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
A: Not ideal. The cheese sauce can separate when frozen, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Q: Where can I find these ingredients cheapest?
A: Try dollar stores, discount grocers (like Aldi), or bulk retailers for the best prices.