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!
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.
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
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Take a medium-sized pot or a deep saucepan. Add the flour and cook for 2 minutes on medium heat to toast.
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Reduce heat to low, then add butter and minced garlic. Cook until the butter has melted and garlic has caramelized.
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Increase heat to medium and add milk slowly, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue to cook until sauce thickens.
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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.
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In a separate pot, boil the pasta in water and cook until al dente. Drain and reserve ¼ cup of pasta water.
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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.
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In a separate pan, toast the breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of butter and cook for 5 minutes to create a breadcrumb topping.
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Preheat the oven to 410 degrees F. Add half of the mac and cheese to a lightly-buttered baking dish.
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Before adding another layer, add 1 cup of shredded cheese. Then, top with the final layer of pasta and cover with the remaining cheese.
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Add the breadcrumbs on top and bake for 20 to 25 minutes or until the top gets nice and golden-brown.
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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.
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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.
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