Extra Creamy Classic Mac and Cheese

Why Make This Recipe

Extra Creamy Classic Mac and Cheese is a beloved comfort food that brings joy with every bite. It combines the chewiness of macaroni with a rich, velvety cheese sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a quiet night in. The creamy texture and cheesy flavors make it a favorite for both kids and adults alike. Plus, it is simple to make and can be prepared in under an hour!

How to Make Extra Creamy Classic Mac and Cheese

Ingredients:

• 3 cups macaroni noodles (measured dry)
• 5 tbsp butter
• 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2.5 cups milk (2% preferred)
• 1.5 cups heavy cream (or whipping cream)
• 2.5 cups sharp cheddar (shredded)
• 1 cup Monterey jack (shredded)
• ½ tsp mustard powder
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Pinch of smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Directions:

1. Boil the macaroni noodles in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook the mixture, whisking constantly, for 2-3 minutes until it becomes a light golden color.
3. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking the mixture, whisking frequently, until it thickens and comes to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated cheddar and Monterey jack cheeses, mustard powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Add salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the cooked macaroni noodles to the cheese sauce and stir until the noodles are glossy and well-coated.
7. Serve hot, straight from the pot.

How to Serve Extra Creamy Classic Mac and Cheese

Extra Creamy Classic Mac and Cheese is best enjoyed hot. You can serve it in large bowls or plate it individually. For a little extra flavor, consider topping it with some breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of parsley or paprika for a pop of color. Pair it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How to Store Extra Creamy Classic Mac and Cheese

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop. You might need to add a splash of milk to revive the creaminess.

Tips to Make Extra Creamy Classic Mac and Cheese

• Make sure to constantly whisk the cheese sauce while adding the milk and cream to avoid lumps.
• For even more flavors, you can mix in cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables.
• If you prefer a baked version, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until golden on top.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by using different cheeses, such as fontina or gouda, to create unique flavor profiles. Additionally, you can add meats like chicken or shrimp, or mix in vegetables such as broccoli or spinach.

FAQs

1. Can I use gluten-free pasta for this recipe?
Yes, gluten-free pasta can be used as a substitute. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce and pasta ahead of time. Just combine and heat before serving.

3. How can I make my mac and cheese spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce while cooking for an extra kick.

Extra Creamy Classic Mac and Cheese

This Extra Creamy Classic Mac and Cheese combines the chewiness of macaroni with a rich, velvety cheese sauce, making it a beloved comfort food for family gatherings or quiet nights in.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Comfort Food, Main Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 550

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Pasta and Dairy Ingredients

• 3 cups macaroni noodles (measured dry) Use elbow macaroni for traditional texture.
• 5 tbsp butter Unsalted butter is preferred.
• 2.5 cups milk (2% preferred) You can use whole milk for richer flavor.
• 1.5 cups heavy cream (or whipping cream) For extra creaminess.
• 2.5 cups sharp cheddar (shredded) Feel free to use a blend of cheeses.
• 1 cup Monterey jack (shredded) Provides a creamy texture.

Seasoning Ingredients

• ½ tsp mustard powder Enhances the flavor.
• ½ tsp garlic powder For added depth of flavor.
• ½ tsp onion powder Adds savory richness.
• pinch smoked paprika For a subtle smoky flavor.
• to taste Salt and pepper Season according to preference.

Method

 

Cooking the Pasta

1. Boil the macaroni noodles in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Making the Cheese Sauce

1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook the mixture, whisking constantly, for 2-3 minutes until it becomes a light golden color.
2. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking the mixture, whisking frequently, until it thickens and comes to a simmer.
3. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated cheddar and Monterey jack cheeses, mustard powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
4. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Combining the Noodles and Sauce

1. Add the cooked macaroni noodles to the cheese sauce and stir until the noodles are glossy and well-coated.

Serving

1. Serve hot, straight from the pot.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider topping with breadcrumbs and parsley or paprika. Pair with side salad or steamed vegetables. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; add a splash of milk during reheating if needed.