Print

Easy Mac and Cheese Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 62 reviews

This Easy Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy delight made with a blend of sharp cheddar, American, and medium cheddar cheeses. The pasta is cooked al dente and combined with a rich, smooth cheese sauce thickened with a classic roux, then finished under the broiler for a bubbly, golden topping. Perfect for a comforting family meal or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 lb Cavatappi Pasta (or elbow, penne, farfalle)

Cheese Sauce

  • 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, cut into small pieces)
  • 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)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Generously salt the water to infuse flavor into the pasta. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the Roux: While the pasta water heats, melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste, preventing a raw flour taste.
  3. Add Dairy: Slowly pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, about 1/4 cup at a time, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  4. Season the Sauce: Stir in the Dijon mustard, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasonings to your taste for a balanced flavor.
  5. Melt the Cheese: Reduce heat to low and gradually add the American cheese, medium cheddar, and half the sharp cheddar, stirring constantly until fully melted and smooth. Add cheese in increments and keep heat low to prevent separation.
  6. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining sharp cheddar cheese on top.
  7. Broil or Bake: Set the oven to broil and broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese topping is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes.
  8. Serve: Serve immediately for the creamiest texture. Optionally garnish with dried parsley or extra paprika for color and flavor.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
  • Be careful not to overcook the pasta; al dente texture is ideal to prevent mushiness.
  • Whisk constantly when adding dairy to avoid lumps in the sauce.
  • If you prefer a crustier topping, use the broil method; for a softer top, bake at 350°F.
  • Adjust seasoning and mustard quantity to taste to customize flavor.

Keywords: mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta

Find it online: https://topreci.com/easy-mac-and-cheese-recipe/