Name: Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 3
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb macaroni; salt and freshly ground black pepper; 2½ tsp paprika or chili powder; 1½ tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp mustard powder; ¼ tsp nutmeg; 1 pinch dried basil; ½ tsp oregano; ½ cup Panko Breadcrumbs; For Cheese Sauce:; ½ cup flour; 4 cups milk; 2 garlics; 4 tbsp milk; ¼ cup butter; 4 cups cheese; ½ cup heavy cream

Dive into a bowl of ultimate comfort food with this creamy mac and cheese recipe. Perfectly cooked macaroni is enveloped in a rich and velvety cheese sauce, then topped with crispy breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch. It's a dish that promises to bring warmth and satisfaction to every bite.

Photos of Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe

Some of the ingredients in this recipe might not be found in every household, such as mustard powder, nutmeg, and panko breadcrumbs. When you're heading to the supermarket, make sure to check these off your list. They add unique flavors and textures that elevate the mac and cheese to a gourmet level.

Ingredients for Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe

Macaroni: A type of short pasta that is the base of this dish.

Salt: Enhances the flavors in the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth.

Paprika: Provides a subtle smoky flavor and color.

Chili powder: Adds a bit of spice; used as an alternative to paprika.

Garlic powder: Infuses the dish with a mild garlic flavor.

Mustard powder: Adds a tangy kick that complements the cheese.

Nutmeg: Introduces a warm, nutty flavor.

Dried basil: Brings a hint of sweet, herbal notes.

Oregano: Adds an earthy, slightly bitter flavor.

Panko breadcrumbs: Japanese-style breadcrumbs that provide a crisp topping.

Flour: Used to thicken the cheese sauce.

Milk: Creates the base of the cheese sauce.

Garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the depth of flavor.

Butter: Adds richness to the sauce and helps toast the breadcrumbs.

Cheese: The star of the dish; it melts into a creamy sauce.

Heavy cream: Adds extra creaminess to the sauce.

One reader, Ingeborg Cosby says:

This creamy mac and cheese recipe is a game-changer! The blend of spices and the rich cheese sauce make it incredibly flavorful. The breadcrumb topping adds the perfect crunch. It's easy to follow and absolutely delicious. Highly recommend!

Ingeborg Cosby

Techniques Required

How to toast flour: Cook the flour in a medium-sized pot or deep saucepan on medium heat for 2 minutes to achieve a toasted flavor. How to caramelize garlic: Reduce heat to low, add butter and minced garlic, and cook until the butter has melted and the garlic has turned a caramel color. How to thicken sauce: Increase heat to medium and add milk slowly while whisking constantly to prevent lumps, continuing to cook until the sauce thickens. How to cook pasta al dente: Boil the pasta in water until it is firm to the bite, then drain and reserve ¼ cup of pasta water. How to toast breadcrumbs: Toast the breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of butter in a separate pan for 5 minutes to create a crispy topping. How to layer mac and cheese: Add half of the mac and cheese to a lightly-buttered baking dish, then add 1 cup of shredded cheese before adding the final layer of pasta and covering with the remaining cheese. How to bake mac and cheese: Preheat the oven to 410 degrees F and bake the mac and cheese for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is golden-brown.

How To Make Creamy Mac and Cheese

Indulge in every bite of this creamy mac and cheese, seasoned with oregano and nutmeg, baked in milk, heavy cream, and loads of cheese until golden.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 40 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbmacaroni
salt and freshly ground black pepper,to taste
2½tsppaprika or chili powder
1½tspgarlic powder
1tspmustard powder,optional but highly recommended
¼tspnutmeg,optional, for added flavor
1pinchdried basil,optional
½tsporegano
½cupPanko breadcrumbs

For Cheese Sauce:

½cupflour
4cupsmilk
2garlics,minced
4tbspmilk
¼cupbutter
4cupscheese,such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella
½cupheavy cream,optional

Instructions

Take a medium-sized pot or a deep saucepan. Add the flour and cook for 2 minutes on medium heat to toast.
Reduce heat to low, then add butter and minced garlic. Cook until the butter has melted and garlic has caramelized.
Increase heat to medium and add milk slowly, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook until sauce thickens.
Turn off the heat and add garlic powder, salt, black pepper, paprika or chili powder, mustard powder, and nutmeg. After mixing, add 1½ cups of the cheese to the sauce and combine. Do not turn on the heat.
In a separate pot, boil the pasta in water and cook until al dente. Drain and reserve ¼ cup of pasta water.
Then, put the macaroni in a large pot and add the sauce without heating it. Add the heavy cream, 4 tablespoons of milk, pasta water, basil, and oregano. Add salt and pepper if needed.
In a separate pan, toast the breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of butter and cook for 5 minutes to create a breadcrumb topping.
Preheat the oven to 410 degrees F. Add half of the mac and cheese to a lightly-buttered baking dish.
Before adding another layer, add 1 cup of shredded cheese. Then, top with the final layer of pasta and cover with the remaining cheese.
Add the breadcrumbs on top and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the top gets nice and golden-brown.
Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1915.51kcal
Fat: 104.38g
Saturated Fat: 60.00g
Trans Fat: 2.70g
Monounsaturated Fat: 26.38g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.57g
Carbohydrates: 165.27g
Fiber: 7.77g
Sugar: 23.90g
Protein: 79.00g
Cholesterol: 309.07mg
Sodium: 1825.80mg
Calcium: 1715.92mg
Potassium: 1149.22mg
Iron: 3.84mg
Vitamin A: 948.32µg
Vitamin C: 5.32mg

Technique Tip for This Recipe

When making the cheese sauce, ensure to whisk the milk in slowly and steadily. This helps prevent lumps from forming and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.

How to Save Time on This Recipe

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients before starting to save time during cooking.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheese to cut down on prep time.

Boil pasta ahead: Cook the macaroni in advance and store it in the fridge until needed.

Microwave butter: Soften the butter in the microwave for quicker melting.

Use garlic paste: Substitute minced garlic with garlic paste to save chopping time.

Skip breadcrumb toasting: Use pre-toasted breadcrumbs to eliminate an extra step.

One-pot method: Combine the cheese sauce and pasta in one pot to reduce cleanup time.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe

macaroni - Substitute with penne: Penne has a similar texture and can hold the cheese sauce well.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can provide a slightly different flavor but works the same in seasoning.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a milder taste and won't alter the color of the dish.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a deeper, smoky flavor that enhances the dish.
chili powder - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds a similar heat but is more intense, so use less.
garlic powder - Substitute with onion powder: Onion powder provides a different but complementary flavor to garlic.
mustard powder - Substitute with Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard can add a similar tangy flavor; use slightly less due to its liquid form.
nutmeg - Substitute with cinnamon: Cinnamon can provide a warm, sweet flavor, though it's more distinct.
dried basil - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme offers a similar earthy flavor that complements the dish.
oregano - Substitute with Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning contains oregano and other herbs, providing a well-rounded flavor.
panko breadcrumbs - Substitute with regular breadcrumbs: Regular breadcrumbs can provide a similar crunchy topping.
flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Cornstarch can thicken the sauce similarly; use half the amount.
milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can provide a dairy-free alternative with a slightly nutty flavor.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that can complement the cheese sauce.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can provide a similar fat content and texture in the sauce.
cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor and is a good vegan alternative.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream provides a rich, creamy texture and is a good dairy-free option.

Best Way to Present This Dish

Use a shallow, wide-rimmed plate: This allows the creamy mac and cheese to be the star of the dish, giving it ample space to spread out and showcase its golden-brown breadcrumb topping.
Create a base layer: Place a generous spoonful of the macaroni mixture in the center of the plate, gently spreading it out to form a base layer. This ensures the cheese sauce is evenly distributed.
Add height with a second layer: Carefully add another spoonful of mac and cheese on top of the base layer, creating a slight mound. This adds visual interest and dimension to the dish.
Sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs: Evenly distribute the panko breadcrumbs over the top layer, ensuring a crunchy texture in every bite. The golden-brown color adds a beautiful contrast to the creamy mac and cheese.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of elegance by sprinkling finely chopped fresh basil and oregano over the top. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color.
Drizzle with extra cheese sauce: For an indulgent touch, drizzle a small amount of the reserved cheese sauce around the edges of the plate. This creates a visually appealing border and adds extra creaminess.
Finish with a dusting of spices: Lightly dust the top with a pinch of paprika or chili powder for a hint of spice and a vibrant red hue. This final touch elevates the presentation and adds depth to the flavor profile.

Best Tools for Preparation

Medium-sized pot: Used to toast the flour and prepare the cheese sauce.
Deep saucepan: An alternative to the medium-sized pot for making the cheese sauce.
Whisk: Essential for mixing the milk into the flour and butter mixture to prevent lumps.
Separate pot: Used to boil the pasta until al dente.
Colander: For draining the cooked pasta.
Large pot: To combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce and other ingredients.
Separate pan: For toasting the breadcrumbs with butter.
Tablespoon: For measuring butter and other ingredients.
Teaspoon: For measuring spices and seasonings.
Lightly-buttered baking dish: To layer the mac and cheese before baking.
Oven: Preheated to 410 degrees Fahrenheit for baking the mac and cheese.
Measuring cups: For accurately measuring milk, heavy cream, and cheese.
Garlic press: For mincing the garlic cloves.
Spatula: For mixing the cheese sauce and pasta together.
Knife: For cutting and preparing ingredients like butter and garlic.
Cutting board: A surface for chopping and preparing ingredients.
Oven mitts: To safely handle the hot baking dish when removing it from the oven.

How To Store / Freeze This Dish

Allow the mac and cheese to cool to room temperature before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make the dish soggy.
Transfer the mac and cheese to an airtight container. If you have a large batch, consider dividing it into smaller portions for easier reheating.
For short-term storage, place the container in the refrigerator. The mac and cheese will stay fresh for up to 3-5 days.
If you plan to store it for a longer period, opt for freezing. Wrap the container in a layer of aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer to prevent freezer burn.
When ready to reheat, if refrigerated, transfer the mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees f and cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
For frozen mac and cheese, it's best to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, follow the same reheating instructions as above.
To maintain the creamy texture, you can add a splash of milk or heavy cream before reheating. Stir well to combine.
If you prefer a quicker reheating method, you can use the microwave. Place the mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
For an extra crispy topping, you can add a fresh layer of toasted breadcrumbs before reheating in the oven. This will give your mac and cheese that freshly baked texture.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F. Transfer the leftover mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until it's heated through. For an extra crispy top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Use a stovetop method for a quicker option. Place the mac and cheese in a saucepan or skillet. Add a splash of milk or heavy cream to help restore its creamy texture. Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently, until it's warmed through. This method helps maintain the creamy consistency.
Microwave for convenience. Place the mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish. Add a small amount of milk or heavy cream and cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it's hot. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can cause the cheese to separate.
For a gourmet touch, reheat in a skillet with a bit of butter. Melt a tablespoon of butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the mac and cheese and stir occasionally until it's heated through. This method can give the dish a slightly crispy bottom layer, adding a delightful texture.
If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350 degrees F. Place the mac and cheese in an air fryer-safe dish. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through. This method can give a nice crispy top without drying out the mac and cheese.

Random Fact About This Recipe

A random fact about this creamy mac and cheese recipe is that the addition of mustard powder enhances the flavor by adding a subtle tanginess, which complements the richness of the cheese sauce.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

Analyzing the cost-effectiveness of this creamy mac and cheese recipe, it scores a solid 8 out of 10. The primary ingredients like macaroni, milk, cheese, and butter are relatively affordable and commonly found in most households. Specialty spices such as paprika, mustard powder, and nutmeg add a gourmet touch without significantly increasing the cost. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD, making it a budget-friendly yet indulgent meal option.

Healthy or Unhealthy?

This creamy mac and cheese recipe, while delicious, leans towards the unhealthy side. The high amounts of cheese, butter, and heavy cream contribute significantly to saturated fats and calories. Additionally, the use of white flour and panko breadcrumbs adds refined carbs, which can spike blood sugar levels. The recipe also lacks vegetables, which are essential for a balanced diet.

Replace half of the cheese with a lower-fat cheese or nutritional yeast.
Use whole wheat macaroni instead of regular macaroni to increase fiber content.
Substitute half of the butter with olive oil or a plant-based alternative.
Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a protein boost and fewer calories.
Add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas to increase nutrient density.
Use almond milk or another low-fat milk alternative instead of whole milk.
Reduce the amount of panko breadcrumbs or use a whole grain version.
Incorporate more herbs and spices to enhance flavor without adding extra fat or calories.

Editor's Thoughts on This Recipe

This creamy mac and cheese recipe is a delightful twist on a classic comfort dish. The blend of spices, including paprika, mustard powder, and nutmeg, adds depth and complexity. The use of heavy cream and a mix of cheeses ensures a rich, velvety sauce. Toasted panko breadcrumbs provide a satisfying crunch. However, the recipe could benefit from streamlining the steps for clarity. Overall, it's a flavorful and indulgent dish that will impress at any gathering.

Enhance Your Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Elevate your vegetable game with these crispy, caramelized brussels sprouts. The tangy balsamic glaze adds a delightful contrast to the creamy richness of the mac and cheese, creating a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Honey-Glazed Carrots with Thyme: Honey-Glazed Carrots with Thyme: These tender carrots are bathed in a luscious honey glaze and sprinkled with fresh thyme. The natural sweetness of the carrots pairs beautifully with the savory, cheesy goodness of the main dish, offering a burst of color and flavor to your plate.

Garlic Butter Green Beans: Garlic Butter Green Beans: Crisp, vibrant green beans sautéed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce. This simple yet elegant side dish adds a refreshing crunch and a hint of garlicky goodness that complements the creamy mac and cheese perfectly.

Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Vinaigrette: Apple Walnut Salad with Maple Vinaigrette: A refreshing salad featuring crisp apples, crunchy walnuts, and mixed greens, all tossed in a sweet and tangy maple vinaigrette. This light and zesty salad provides a delightful contrast to the rich and creamy mac and cheese, adding a touch of freshness to your meal.

Tomato Basil Soup: Tomato Basil Soup: A warm, comforting bowl of tomato soup infused with fresh basil. The bright, acidic notes of the tomatoes cut through the richness of the mac and cheese, creating a well-rounded and satisfying dining experience.

Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This One

Baked Ziti: Dive into this classic Italian-American dish that's perfect for a cozy dinner. Layers of pasta, ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce are topped with gooey mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Bake until bubbly and golden for a comforting meal.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup: Warm up with a bowl of this creamy, cheesy soup. Fresh broccoli is simmered in a velvety cheddar cheese base, creating a rich and satisfying dish. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a starter for a larger meal.

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in this creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken breast and a luscious alfredo sauce. The sauce, made from butter, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese, coats the fettuccine perfectly, making every bite a delight.

Spinach and Artichoke Dip: A crowd-pleaser at any gathering, this dip combines spinach and artichokes in a creamy, cheesy mixture. Serve it warm with tortilla chips or crusty bread for an appetizer that's sure to disappear quickly.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: These colorful bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce. Topped with melted cheese, they make a hearty and nutritious meal that's as beautiful as it is delicious.

Suggested Appetizers and Desserts

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these stuffed mushrooms. Start by selecting large, firm mushrooms and remove the stems. Create a delectable filling using cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Add a touch of parmesan for a rich, savory flavor. Fill each mushroom cap generously and bake until golden and bubbly. The result is a mouthwatering bite-sized treat that will impress any guest.

Bruschetta: Transform simple ingredients into a delightful starter with bruschetta. Begin with slices of crusty bread, toasted to perfection. Top each slice with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar. The combination of flavors and textures creates a refreshing and satisfying appetizer that is perfect for any occasion.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a decadent treat with a rich, molten center that flows out as you cut into it. This dessert combines the deep flavors of dark chocolate with a hint of espresso to enhance its complexity. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent experience. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries to add a touch of elegance. Perfect for special occasions or a romantic dinner, this dessert is sure to impress.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Envision a refreshing treat that balances tart and sweet flavors beautifully. This dessert features a buttery crust filled with a zesty lemon curd and topped with a fluffy meringue. The meringue is lightly toasted to give it a golden-brown finish, adding both texture and visual appeal. Serve chilled for a cooling effect on a warm day. A slice of this dessert is like a burst of sunshine, making it an ideal choice for summer gatherings or a light finish to a hearty meal.

Why trust this Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe:

This creamy mac and cheese recipe is a must-try for any pasta lover. The combination of cheese, heavy cream, and butter creates a rich and velvety sauce that perfectly coats the macaroni. The addition of spices like paprika and mustard powder adds depth and flavor, while the panko breadcrumbs provide a satisfying crunch. This recipe has been carefully crafted and tested to ensure a delicious and comforting dish every time. Trust in the quality of ingredients and the detailed instructions to deliver a mouthwatering experience.

Want to share your own twist on this creamy mac and cheese recipe? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and join the discussion!

FAQ:

How can I make the mac and cheese even creamier?

To make it even creamier, you can add an extra ¼ cup of heavy cream or a bit more cheese. Also, make sure to cook the sauce slowly and whisk constantly to get that smooth, velvety texture.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While macaroni is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you like. Penne, fusilli, or shells work great too.

What type of cheese should I use?

A mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella is my go-to, but you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a bit of Parmesan for extra flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it. When you're ready to eat, just add the breadcrumb topping and bake as directed.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or pop it back in the oven until warmed through.