Creamy mac and cheese is a comforting and indulgent dish. It features tender pasta, typically elbow macaroni. The pasta is enveloped in a rich and velvety cheese sauce. The sauce is made by melting a combination of cheeses. This often includes sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella. Sometimes there is a hint of Gruyère or Parmesan. These are melted into a buttery roux blended with milk or cream. This luscious mixture is seasoned with salt, pepper, and a touch of mustard or garlic for added depth.
The final dish is baked to perfection, resulting in a golden, bubbly top that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior. Each spoonful offers a delightful balance of textures. The soft pasta mingles with the luscious cheese sauce. This creates a nostalgic and satisfying experience. Creamy mac and cheese can be enjoyed on its own. You can also add crispy bacon. Sautéed vegetables or breadcrumbs can be included for an extra layer of flavor and crunch. It is a beloved staple. It appeals to both children and adults. This makes it a popular choice for gatherings, family dinners, or cozy nights in.
This Creamy Mac and Cheese is quick to prepare on the stove top. It includes two types of cheese. It is creamy, hearty, and delicious!
Equipment
Ingredients for Creamy Mac and Cheese
- 2 cups macaroni
- 2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup carrots
- ½ cup frozen peas
- 1 cup milk , any kind (I used 3%)
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- ½ cup pasta sauce
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions for Making Delicious Creamy Mac and Cheese
- In a large pot, cook pasta in boil water until all dent, per packaged directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium pot, melt oil. And stir fry carrots and peas for 2 minutes.
- Then mix in ½ tsp salt and pepper.
- Slowly add milk and cream cheese, mix together until blended.
- Add pasta sauce Heat mixture until it bubbles over medium heat.
- Add pasta to cheese mixture and toss to combine.
- Reduce heat to low and add in cheeses. Stir until melted.
- If mixture is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons more milk and go from there.
- Let macaroni and cheese sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
Notes and Tips
- To add more flavor to this mac ‘n cheese, I add 2 teaspoons of garlic powder. I also include a dash of paprika or ground nutmeg.
- Looking for a more distinct cheesy taste? Use ¼ cup of shredded Parmesan or cheddar jack cheese. Add ¾ cup of shredded mozzarella. Finally, mix in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar.
- See my tips and tricks for making this Creamy Macaroni and Cheese above the recipe box.
- You can add your favorite vegetables ( like beans, bell pepper, broccoli ) and beef or chicken or Turkey.
Video
Frequently Asking Questions about Creamy Mac and Cheese:
1) What’s the key to a truly creamy cheese sauce?
A smooth roux (butter + flour), gradual milk, and a mix of cheeses that melt well ( cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère). Don’t boil after adding cheese; simmer gently and stir until smooth.
2) Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes. Use your favorite gluten-free elbow or small pasta. Cook to al dente and fold into the sauce as usual.
3) What can I substitute for dairy?
For a dairy-free version, use unsweetened almond or oat milk. Opt for a plant-based cheese. Alternatively, try a mixture of vegan cheddar and creamy cashew sauce. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy note.
4) Bake vs. stove top—what’s the difference?
Stove top yields a quick, creamy sauce. Baking creates a golden top and a firmer texture. You can combine: finish under the broiler for a crust, or bake covered with breadcrumbs.
5) How can I prevent the sauce from separating or turning greasy?
Use moderate heat, add milk gradually, and avoid overheating once the cheese is melted. Use a blend of cheeses with good meltability and a small amount of cream or cornstarch slurry if needed.
6) How to personalize with mix-ins?
Add cooked bacon, sautéed broccoli, spinach, caramelized onions, or roasted peppers. Stir-ins should be pre-cooked to avoid extra moisture.
7) How long does it last and how should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen.
8) How can I make it kid-friendly or heat it up for a crowd?
Keep the cheese flavor milder and avoid strong spices. For a crowd, scale up ingredients and bake in a large casserole dish; cover and bake until bubbling.
Creamiest Mac and Cheese
Creamy mac and cheese is a comforting and indulgent dish that features tender pasta, typically elbow macaroni, enveloped in a rich and velvety cheese sauce. The sauce is made by melting a combination of cheeses—often including sharp cheddar, creamy mozzarella, and sometimes a hint of Gruyère or Parmesan—into a buttery roux blended with milk or cream. This luscious mixture is seasoned with salt, pepper, and perhaps a touch of mustard or garlic for added depth.
Ingredients
- 2 cups macaroni
- 2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon coconut oil
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup carrots
- ½ cup frozen peas
- 1 cup milk, any kind (I used 3%)
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese
- ½ cup pasta sauce
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook pasta in boil water until al dent, per packaged directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium pot, melt oil. And stir fry carrots and peas for 2 minutes.
- Then mix in ½ tsp salt and pepper.
- Slowly add milk and cream cheese, mix together until blended.
- Add pasta sauce Heat mixture until it bubbles over medium heat.
- Add pasta to cheese mixture and toss to combine.
- Reduce heat to low and add in cheeses. Stir until melted.
- If mixture is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons more milk and go from there.
- Let macaroni and cheese sit for 5 minutes to thicken.
Notes
- To add more flavor to this mac 'n cheese, I add 2 teaspoons of garlic powder. I also include a dash of paprika or ground nutmeg.
- Looking for a more distinct cheesy taste? Use ¼ cup of shredded Parmesan or cheddar jack cheese. Add ¾ cup of shredded mozzarella. Finally, mix in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar.
- See my tips and tricks for making this Creamy Macaroni and Cheese above the recipe box.
- You can add your favorite vegetables (like beans, bell pepper, broccoli) and beef or chicken or Turkey.
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Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 302Total Fat: 18gSaturated Fat: 11gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 46mgSodium: 1095mgCarbohydrates: 20gFiber: 2gSugar: 5gProtein: 14g
**Nutritional information on HRCookery is provided as a courtesy. We can't guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information given for any recipe on the site. these figures should only be considered as estimates.
