Creamy Mac and Cheese

why make this recipe

This Creamy Mac & Cheese is simple and tasty. You can make it fast. Kids and adults like it. It uses common ingredients you may already have. It makes a warm, cheesy meal that fills you up.

introduction

This recipe uses elbow macaroni, cheddar cheese, milk, butter, salt, and pepper. It bakes into a soft, creamy dish with a golden top. If you want a similar twist for holiday sides, see this easy version: Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese recipe.

how to make Creamy Mac & Cheese

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix the cooked macaroni with shredded cheddar, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese is mixed in.
4. Pour the mix into a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
5. Dot the top with small pats of butter.
6. Bake for 20–25 minutes. Bake until the cheese bubbles and the top turns light gold.
7. Let it cool a few minutes before serving.

You can also read another step-by-step guide here: Thanksgiving Mac and Cheese recipe.

Ingredients :

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter

Directions :

1. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions, making sure it’s al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix the cooked macaroni with the shredded cheddar, milk, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined.
4. Pour the delightful mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Finish it off by dotting the top with little pats of butter.
6. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top has taken on a lovely golden hue.
7. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before digging in. Enjoy your creamy creation!

how to serve Creamy Mac & Cheese

Serve warm. Use a spoon or scoop to put it on plates. It goes well with a green salad, steamed vegetables, or cooked chicken. For a family meal, serve it in the baking dish on the table.

how to store Creamy Mac & Cheese

Let it cool to room temperature. Put leftovers in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until hot, or heat in the microwave in short bursts.

tips to make Creamy Mac & Cheese

• Use sharp cheddar for more flavor.
• Do not overcook the pasta. Keep it al dente.
• Stir the cheese and milk well for a smooth mix.
• For a different flavor, try adding a little mustard powder or garlic powder.
• For a lighter version, try small changes from other recipes, like this cottage cheese idea: 4-Ingredient Cottage Cheese Bagels.

variation (if any)

• Add cooked bacon or ham for meat.
• Mix in cooked vegetables like broccoli or peas.
• Top with breadcrumbs or extra cheese for a crunchy top.
• Use a blend of cheeses (cheddar + mozzarella or Gruyère) for richer taste.

FAQs

Q: Can I use different pasta?
A: Yes. Small shells, penne, or cavatappi work well.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble it and keep covered in the fridge. Bake when ready, add a few extra minutes.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: You can freeze in a tight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Q: How do I make it less greasy?
A: Use less butter on top and do not overuse high-fat cheeses.

Conclusion

If you want a slightly different baked version with contest-winning notes, check this recipe for inspiration: Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese (Contest-Winning!) – The Chunky Chef.

Creamy Mac & Cheese

This Creamy Mac & Cheese recipe is simple, quick to prepare, and loved by both kids and adults. It features a soft, creamy texture with a golden top, perfect for a warm, cheesy meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni Cook until al dente.
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar recommended for more flavor.
• 2 cups milk Stir well with cheese for smooth mix.
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter Dot on top before baking.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix the cooked macaroni with shredded cheddar, milk, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Dot the top with small pats of butter.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve warm with a green salad, steamed vegetables, or cooked chicken. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.