Easy Mac and Cheese Recipe

Mac and cheese is a timeless comfort food, and this easy homemade version will have your taste buds dancing with its creamy, cheesy goodness. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this mac and cheese recipe is perfect for any time. Featuring a delicious blend of sharp cheddar, American cheese, and medium cheddar, the sauce is rich and smooth with the perfect balance of seasoning. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for cheese lovers who want a comforting dish that satisfies all the cravings. The creamy texture and melty cheese will make this mac and cheese a staple in your household. If you’re craving something easy yet indulgent, this recipe is the one you need to try!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Super Creamy and Cheesy

The combination of heavy cream, whole milk, and freshly grated cheese creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats every piece of pasta for a creamy texture.

2. Quick and Easy

With just a few simple steps, this recipe is quick to make. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving comfort food in a hurry.

3. Perfectly Seasoned

The paprika, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard add just the right amount of flavor, making this mac and cheese taste like it’s been simmering for hours.

4. Versatile Pasta Options

Whether you prefer cavatappi, elbow macaroni, penne, or farfalle, you can easily switch up the type of pasta to suit your preference.

5. Extra Cheesy Topping

The additional layer of sharp cheddar on top creates a perfect golden, crispy finish when broiled, adding extra texture to each bite.

Ingredients

• Cavatappi pasta (or elbow, penne, or farfalle)
• Unsalted butter
• All-purpose flour
• Whole milk
• Heavy cream
• Sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
• American cheese (Boar’s Head, deli-sliced)
• Medium cheddar cheese (freshly grated)
• Salt
• Pepper
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Dijon mustard (optional: use 2 teaspoons)

Variations

Bacon Mac and Cheese

For a savory twist, add crispy bacon bits to the cheese sauce or sprinkle them on top for an extra crunch and smoky flavor.

Spicy Mac and Cheese

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the sauce to give your mac and cheese a spicy kick.

Veggie Mac and Cheese

Incorporate steamed vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese

Substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure all your dairy ingredients are gluten-free to make a gluten-free version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

While the pasta water is heating up, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes to form a smooth paste. This step helps avoid the raw flour taste in your sauce.

Step 3: Add the Dairy

Slowly pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, about 1/4 cup at a time, while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

Step 4: Season the Sauce

Stir in the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings to your preference.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the American cheese (cut into small pieces), medium cheddar, and sharp cheddar (reserving 4 ounces for the topping). Stir constantly to ensure the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce. Add the cheese in small increments and keep the heat low to prevent curdling.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Pour everything into a greased baking dish.

Step 7: Bake

Sprinkle the remaining 4 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese on top of the mac and cheese. Set the oven to broil and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, you can bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes.

Step 8: Serve

Serve immediately for the creamiest texture. Optionally, garnish with dried parsley or additional paprika on top for added flavor and color.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-packaged cheese has anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting properly, so always use freshly grated cheese from blocks for the best texture.
• Avoid burning the roux: Make sure to cook the flour mixture over medium heat and whisk constantly to avoid burning.
• Slowly add dairy: Adding the cream and milk slowly will help the sauce thicken evenly without forming lumps.
• Keep the heat low while melting the cheese: Adding cheese on low heat prevents it from becoming grainy or separating.
• Broil for a crispy topping: If you want a golden, crispy top, be sure to broil the mac and cheese for just 2-3 minutes, keeping an eye on it to avoid burning.

How to Serve

Serve this mac and cheese as a side dish with grilled chicken, roast beef, or even a crisp salad. It’s also hearty enough to be a main course on its own. For a complete comfort meal, pair it with garlic bread or cornbread for extra indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover mac and cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave with a little extra milk or cream to bring back its creamy texture.

Freezing

This mac and cheese doesn’t freeze well because of the cheese and milk mixture, which can separate upon reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.

Reheating

To reheat, microwave individual servings with a splash of milk, stirring occasionally to keep the texture smooth. You can also reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, for about 15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with any pasta shape like penne, farfalle, or elbow macaroni, depending on your preference.

2. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

It’s best to use freshly grated cheese because pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce.

3. How can I make this spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the sauce for an extra kick of heat.

4. Can I make this recipe without baking it?

Yes, you can skip the baking step and serve the mac and cheese directly from the stovetop for a creamy, stovetop version.

5. How can I make the mac and cheese even creamier?

To make it extra creamy, use more heavy cream or add a spoonful of cream cheese into the sauce.

6. Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes, you can swap the cheddar or American cheese for other melty cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or Gruyère.

7. Can I add meat to the mac and cheese?

Yes, you can add cooked ground beef, sausage, or bacon to make the dish heartier.

8. How do I prevent the sauce from being lumpy?

Make sure to whisk constantly when adding the cream and milk to the roux to prevent lumps from forming.

9. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake or broil before serving.

10. How do I get a crispy top?

Broil the mac and cheese for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Conclusion

This easy mac and cheese recipe is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and full of flavor. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a comforting dish that the whole family will love. Whether you bake it for a crispy top or enjoy it straight from the stovetop, this mac and cheese is sure to become a regular on your dinner table. Grab your ingredients and start cooking—this dish is a guaranteed hit!

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