The Creamiest Mac and Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This creamiest mac and cheese recipe is the ultimate comfort food for any occasion. Made with a rich blend of cheeses and a smooth, creamy sauce, it promises to satisfy your cheesy cravings in every bite.
Ingredients
- 8 oz. elbow macaroni pasta
- 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter
- 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 oz. cream cheese
- ½ tsp. salt
- ¼ tsp. black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.
- Step 2: In a medium pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Step 3: Whisk in the all-purpose flour until the mixture is smooth and combined.
- Step 4: Slowly pour in the heavy whipping cream while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue to stir for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Step 5: Add the shredded sharp cheddar, shredded mozzarella, cream cheese, salt, and black pepper to the cream sauce. Whisk until all the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Step 6: Pour the cheese sauce over the drained macaroni and stir well to ensure every piece of pasta is coated. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
Tips & Variations
- For a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the mac and cheese and broil for a few minutes before serving.
- Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
- Use whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version, though it will be less rich.
Storage
Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess if it has thickened.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, while elbow macaroni is classic, other pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne work well and hold the cheese sauce nicely.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the mac and cheese, then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving, adding a bit of milk if needed to revive the creamy texture.
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The Creamiest Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Creamiest Mac and Cheese recipe, featuring a velvety blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and cream cheese enveloping perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. The rich, creamy sauce is thickened with a butter and flour roux and heavy cream, delivering indulgent cheesy goodness in every bite.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz. elbow macaroni pasta
Cheese Sauce
- 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter
- 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 and ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 oz. cream cheese
- ½ tsp. salt
- ¼ tsp. black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the macaroni well and set aside.
- Prepare the Roux: While the pasta cooks, melt the unsalted butter in a medium pot over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour continuously, stirring until you form a smooth paste without lumps.
- Add Heavy Cream: Gradually pour in the heavy whipping cream while whisking nonstop to prevent lumps. Continue to stir the mixture gently for a couple of minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Melt the Cheese: Add the shredded sharp cheddar, shredded mozzarella, and cream cheese to the thickened cream mixture. Also, season with salt and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly until all cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the luscious cheese sauce over the drained elbow macaroni in the large pot or a mixing bowl. Stir well until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the mac and cheese and add more salt or pepper if desired to suit your preference. Serve hot for a decadent, comforting meal.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and creamier texture.
- For extra richness, you can substitute part of the heavy cream with whole milk, but cream provides the best luxurious texture.
- Feel free to add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a subtle flavor twist.
- To bake a crunchy topping, transfer mac and cheese into a baking dish, top with extra shredded cheddar and breadcrumbs, then bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until golden.
- This recipe serves about 4 people as a main or 6 as a side dish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, elbow macaroni recipe, cheesy pasta, comfort food, cheddar cheese pasta
