Creamy mac and cheese is a classic dish. There’s nothing as comforting as a bowl of creamy mac and cheese. It is the ultimate indulgence, combining tender pasta with a rich, velvety cheese sauce that’s impossible to resist. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a quick meal fix, mac and cheese always hits the spot.
Creamy Mac and cheese has a long history, dating back to the 13th century, when the first recipe for cheese pasta appeared in an Italian cookbook. Over time, in American and European cuisines many variations has taken place, and it has become a staple comfort food. Its versatility and simplicity have made it a favorite dish around the world. From baked versions to stovetop preparations, mac and cheese is a dish that everyone loves.
Try my recent recipe: Shepherd's Pie
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Ingredients
- Macaroni Pasta: The heart of the dish, providing the perfect bite-sized shape for holding the creamy sauce. Buy now: Amazon Fresh, Elbow macaroni
- Cheddar Cheese: The star ingredient, offering bold and tangy flavor.
- Milk: Ensures the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Butter: Adds richness to the sauce.
- Flour: Helps thicken the cheese sauce into a luscious consistency. Buy now: Amazon Fresh, all purpose flour
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
- Step 1: Boil water add salt pour macaroni
- Melt the butter in a large pot and sprinkle in the flour. Whisk together over medium-low heat. Cook the mixture for 5 minutes, whisking constantly. Don't let it burn. Pour in the milk, and whisk until smooth. Cook for 5 minutes until very thick. Reduce the heat to low.
- Step 3: Add in the cheese and stir to melt.
- Step 4: Pour into a baking dish, top with extra cheese, sprinkle oregano (optional) and bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes, then serve.
Hint: For extra creaminess, reserve a cup of pasta water before draining the macaroni. Stir it into the cheese sauce to achieve that silky texture.
Watch video of the recipe here: Mac n Cheese
Substitutions
Pasta: You can use macaroni shells, penne, or gluten-free pasta in creamy mac and cheese.
Milk: Substitute with almond milk, oat milk, or heavy cream for different levels of creaminess.
Butter: Instead of butter try olive oil or vegan butter for a lighter or plant-based option.
Reasons To adore this Creamy Mach and Cheese Recipe:
Ultra Creamy Texture: The cheese sauce is luxuriously smooth, coating every piece of pasta for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Customizable to Your Taste: You can add your favorite cheeses, spices, or mix-ins like veggies or proteins to make it your own creamy mac and cheese version.
Kid and Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table.
Variations for Creamy Mac and Cheese
Baked Mac and Cheese: Top with breadcrumbs and bake for a crispy golden crust.
Veggie-loaded Creamy Mac and Cheese: Toss in steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas for added nutrition.
Protein-packed Mac and Cheese: Mix in cooked chicken, crispy bacon, or ground beef.
Storage options for Creamy Mac and Cheese
If you’ve got leftovers (lucky you!), storing your creamy mac and cheese is a breeze:
- Refrigerator: Transfer it to a container and store it in the fridge for maximum 4 days. When you want to enjoy it again, reheat it gently in the microwave. Add a splash of milk to revive that creamy texture.
- Freezer: Want to save some for later? Let it cool completely, then freeze in a container for up to 3 months. If you wish to reheat again, thaw overnight in the fridge, and warm it on low heat with a little milk or cream to bring back its lusciousness.
Pro Tip: Store in individual portions for quick and convenient meals anytime!
Top tip
Grate your cheese fresh for creamy mac and cheese! Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of your sauce. Freshly grated cheese melts more evenly for a perfectly creamy result.
Creamy Mac and Cheese
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy mac and cheese recipe! Made with tender macaroni and a rich, velvety cheese sauce, it’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite add-ins for a dish everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 4 cups (500g) dried macaroni
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup salted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 lb cheddar and mozzarella cheese , grated
- 1 teaspoon salt, more to taste
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 pinch oregano (optional)
- 1⁄2 teaspoon Cayenne pepper or paprika
Instructions
- STEP :1
○ Boil water add salt pour macaronis
○ Cook the macaroni until very firm. The macaroni should be too firm to eat right
out of the pot. Drain - STEP : 2
○ Melt the butter in a large pot and sprinkle in the flour. Whisk together over
medium-low heat. Cook the mixture for 5 minutes, whisking constantly. Don't let
it burn. Pour in the milk, and whisk until smooth. Cook for 5 minutes until very
thick. Reduce the heat to low.
○ Beat the egg in a small bowl
○ Take 2 spoons of the sauce and slowly pour it into the beaten egg, whisking
constantly to avoid cooking the egg. pour the egg mixture into the sauce, whisking
constantly. Stir until smooth. Add in the cheese and stir to melt.
○ Pour in the drained, cooked macaroni and stir to combine. - STEP : 3
○ Pour into a baking dish, top with extra cheese, sprinkle oregano (optional)and
bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes, then serve.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 609Total Fat: 39gSaturated Fat: 22gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 13gCholesterol: 140mgSodium: 1028mgCarbohydrates: 36gFiber: 2gSugar: 6gProtein: 28g
FAQ
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese, store it in an airtight container, and reheat it on the stovetop with a splash of milk to revive its creamy texture.
Use low heat and gradually add the cheese to the sauce, stirring constantly. Avoid overheating as it can cause the cheese to separate.
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Pairing
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