There’s something about the rich, creamy goodness of mac and cheese that wraps you in warmth like a cherished hug from an old friend. It’s the kind of comfort food that brings back memories of family gatherings, laughter around the dinner table, and lazy Sundays spent indulging in life’s simple pleasures. Today, we’re diving into the delightful, gooey world of Creamy Mac & Cheese, a dish that feels like a celebration every time you take a bite.
Why make this recipe? Imagine yourself savoring creamy, dreamy pasta enveloped in a blanket of oozing cheese while sitting in your favorite cozy spot. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, a heartwarming hug from the inside out. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, a special weekend treat, or even a mid-week pick-me-up. It’s comforting, indulgent, and absolutely unforgettable.
How to make Creamy Mac & Cheese
Ingredients:
- 1.5 box/lb macaroni noodles (1 box and a half! 24oz of noodles in total! I also love to use cavatappi noodles for this recipe!)
- 16 oz sharp cheddar (freshly grated)
- 16 oz Colby jack cheese
- 8 oz Gouda
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese
- 6 cups heavy cream
- 4 tbsps salted butter
- 4 oz cream cheese (optional)
- 2 tsps salt
- 2 tsp chicken bouillon
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp ground mustard
- 1 tsp white pepper
- 1 tsp adobo
Directions:
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Cheese Prep: Begin by grating your selection of cheeses using the large shredder. Set them aside, but don’t throw away any small chunks that are just too cute to grate; they’ll add delightful pockets of cheesy goodness later!
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Cook the Noodles: Follow the instructions on the macaroni package, adding chicken bouillon to the boiling water to give the noodles an extra flavor boost.
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Make the Cheese Sauce: In a spacious sauce pot, melt the butter over low heat. Then, gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking gently to create a smooth, luxurious mixture.
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Add the Cheese: Stir in about 50% of your grated cheese. Once blended, introduce the cream cheese, allowing it to melt into this creamy concoction, teasing your taste buds with the scents of savory delight. Season with your assortment of spices, tasting along the way to reach perfection.
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Combine with Noodles: Toss your cooked macaroni in with the heavenly cheese sauce, ensuring every noodle is beautifully coated. Don’t forget to add those leftover cheese chunks for that extra thrill!
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Layer and Bake: Transfer half of your cheesy noodle mixture into a 13×9 baking dish. Layer it with a light coating of cheese sauce and a mix of shredded cheese. Repeat with the remaining noodles and top with an ample layer of shredded goodness—cheddar or Colby Jack is perfect for this.
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Final Touch: Pop it in the oven at 350 degrees until everything is gloriously melted. For a golden finish, broil for the last 2 minutes, watching that top turn into a beautifully bubbly crust.
How to serve Creamy Mac & Cheese
Serve it hot from the oven, allowing the cheese to pull away in glorious, gooey strings. Pair it with a crisp salad or your favorite grilled protein for a full meal, or simply enjoy it solo with a warmed-up piece of rustic bread to mop up any ooey-gooey leftovers.
How to store Creamy Mac & Cheese
If you have leftovers (and that’s a big if in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to bring it back to its creamy glory.
Tips to make Creamy Mac & Cheese
- Choose Quality Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully and ensures a smooth texture. Skip the pre-shredded options if you can!
- Add Extra Flavor: Consider adding cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or even a pinch of smoked paprika for an exciting twist.
Variations
- Baked Mac & Cheese: For a crunchy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan cheese before baking.
- Veggie-Loaded: Toss in steamed broccoli or spinach to sneak in some greens without sacrificing that creamy texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare everything up to the baking stage, cover, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven until bubbly.
Q: What if I don’t have heavy cream?
A: You can substitute half and half or even whole milk, but the richness may be reduced. Consider adding a little extra butter to compensate.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes! Portion the mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slowly for the best texture.
There you have it, a creamy embrace of mac and cheese that instantly elevates any meal. This dish has the kind of charm that brings family and friends together, invoking laughter and joy in every bite. So, gather your loved ones, create this delicious masterpiece, and bask in the warm, cheesy love that only homemade comfort food can bring. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy moment!
Creamy Mac & Cheese
Ingredients
Method
- Begin by grating your selection of cheeses using the large shredder. Set them aside, keeping small chunks for later.
- Follow the instructions on the macaroni package, adding chicken bouillon to the boiling water.
- In a spacious sauce pot, melt the butter over low heat, then pour in the heavy cream, whisking to create a smooth mixture.
- Stir in about 50% of your grated cheese and then add the cream cheese, allowing it to melt. Season with spices to taste.
- Toss the cooked macaroni in with the cheese sauce, ensuring every noodle is coated. Add chunky cheese pieces.
- Transfer half of the cheese noodle mixture into a baking dish. Layer with cheese sauce and shredded cheese. Repeat with the remaining noodles and top with more cheese.
- Bake at 350°F until melted, then broil for the last 2 minutes for a golden crust.
- Serve hot, allowing cheese to pull away in gooey strings, alongside a salad or grilled protein.