Easy Mac and Cheese Recipe

When you’re craving the ultimate comfort food, there’s nothing quite like homemade mac and cheese. This easy mac and cheese recipe is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. By combining sharp cheddar, medium cheddar, and Boar’s Head American cheese, you’ll create a smooth, velvety cheese sauce that perfectly coats your pasta. The addition of paprika, garlic powder, and Dijon mustard adds depth and complexity to the dish, making it truly irresistible. Whether you’re preparing this for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this mac and cheese will surely be a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This easy mac and cheese recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a creamy and cheesy pasta dish without all the hassle. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s quick to prepare and even quicker to disappear from the table. The combination of whole milk, heavy cream, and freshly grated cheeses ensures a rich, velvety sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, it’s comfort food at its finest. The optional broil step gives the cheese a golden, slightly crispy crust, taking it to the next level of indulgence.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Cavatappi pasta (or elbow, penne, or farfalle)
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup flour
• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 8 ounces American cheese (Boar’s Head from the deli)
• 4 ounces medium cheddar cheese, freshly grated
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (may use 2 teaspoons)

Variations

• Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to give the mac and cheese a kick.
• Bacon Mac and Cheese: Fry up some crispy bacon and crumble it over the top before broiling for an added savory touch.
• Veggie Mac and Cheese: Stir in some steamed broccoli or spinach for a healthier version.
• Smoky Mac and Cheese: Add a bit of smoked paprika to infuse a smoky flavor into the sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Make the Roux

While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter over medium heat in a large saucepan. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture forms a smooth paste.

Step 3: Add Dairy

Gradually pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, about 1/4 cup at a time, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, or 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 the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the American cheese (cut into small pieces), 4 ounces of medium cheddar, and 4 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Be sure to add the cheese in small increments to ensure it melts evenly.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until it’s evenly coated. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a baking dish.

Step 7: Broil or Bake

Set the oven to broil and broil the mac and cheese for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Alternatively, you can bake it at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes for a softer top.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Freshly Grated Cheese: For the best results, always use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-packaged shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture and meltability of the cheese sauce.
• Creamy Texture: The heavy cream and whole milk provide the ideal creamy consistency. Make sure to whisk constantly to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth sauce.
• Seasoning: Adjust the seasonings to your preference. A little extra paprika or garlic powder can give the dish a unique flavor profile.
• Breadcrumb Topping: If you prefer a crispy topping, sprinkle some breadcrumbs over the mac and cheese before broiling, or add a few extra tablespoons of cheese for a cheesier crust.

How to Serve

Serve this easy mac and cheese as a side dish with grilled chicken, roast beef, or a fresh garden salad. It also works well as a main course for a comforting lunch or dinner. Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley or extra paprika for a pop of color and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once your mac and cheese has cooled to room temperature, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven with a bit of milk to restore its creamy texture.

Freezing

Mac and cheese can be frozen for up to 1 month. To freeze, place the cooled mac and cheese in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.

Reheating

To reheat, place the mac and cheese in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes! You can substitute any pasta shape you like, such as penne, shells, or fusilli. Just ensure it’s cooked al dente before adding to the cheese sauce.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake or broil it right before serving for the best texture.
3. Can I make this recipe in the Crock Pot? You can make a similar version in the Crock Pot by combining the cheese sauce and pasta in the slow cooker on low for about 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally.
4. How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming lumpy? Whisk constantly while adding the milk and heavy cream slowly to ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce.
5. Can I add meat to this mac and cheese? Absolutely! Bacon, sausage, or even grilled chicken would make great additions to this dish.
6. What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
7. Can I use pre-shredded cheese? It’s best to use freshly grated cheese for the creamiest sauce, as pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well.
8. What other cheeses can I use? You can substitute other cheeses like mozzarella, Gouda, or Gruyère for different flavor profiles.
9. Can I make this dish spicier? Yes! You can add more cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or chili flakes to spice things up.
10. Is this recipe vegetarian? Yes, as long as you use vegetarian-friendly cheeses, this recipe is completely vegetarian.

Conclusion

This easy homemade mac and cheese is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients, rich flavor, and velvety texture, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether served as a side or the main course, this mac and cheese will satisfy even the most serious cheese lovers. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or reheated for later—either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser!

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