This creamy mac and cheese is a warm, cheesy hug in a bowl! Made with pasta, cheddar, and a bit of cream cheese, it has a super silky texture that kids and adults love alike.
I can’t resist a cheesy dish! This recipe is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Plus, it’s easy to whip up and will leave everyone asking for seconds—maybe even thirds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic choice for mac and cheese. If you need a gluten-free option, try brown rice pasta or gluten-free elbow macaroni. You can also use other pasta shapes like shells or fusilli for a fun twist!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a strong flavor, but feel free to mix in mild cheddar or even a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a different taste profile. A little Parmesan can add depth too!
Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and a touch of tanginess. You can replace it with mascarpone or even a vegan cream cheese if you’re looking for dairy-free options. Just ensure it’s softened for easier blending.
Whole Milk: While whole milk is great for a rich texture, you can use 2% or even non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Just keep in mind that this might slightly change the creaminess.
How Do You Make a Smooth Cheese Sauce Without Lumps?
Making a smooth cheese sauce is all about technique. Here’s how to avoid lumps:
- Start with a roux: Melt butter and whisk in flour until golden. This helps thicken your sauce.
- Add milk gradually, whisking constantly. This prevents lumps from forming. Pour in a little, whisk, then add more.
- Keep whisking until it thickens, which usually takes 5-7 minutes. You want a creamy base before adding cheese.
- Mix in the cream cheese first for an ultra-smooth texture before adding cheddar. Stir well until melted and combined.
Taking your time during these steps will help ensure your mac and cheese turns out perfectly creamy every time!
Joanna Gaines Mac And Cheese With Cream Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or similar pasta
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious mac and cheese takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll have it ready in around 25 minutes—perfect for a quick and comforting meal on a busy night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Macaroni:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm but not hard). Once it’s cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and set it aside.
2. Make the Roux:
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour to create a roux. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes while whisking constantly until it becomes lightly golden and fragrant. This helps give your cheese sauce a nice thickness!
3. Add Milk:
Gradually add the whole milk to the roux, whisking continuously to ensure no lumps form. Keep whisking until your mixture begins to thicken and bubble, which should take around 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the Cream Cheese:
Lower the heat to medium-low and add the softened cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is completely melted, blending it into the sauce until smooth and creamy.
5. Add Cheddar Cheese:
Next, add the shredded cheddar cheese along with salt and black pepper. Stir everything together until the cheese has fully melted, and the sauce is nice and creamy. Taste and adjust salt if needed!
6. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Now it’s time to add the cooked macaroni back into the cheesy sauce. Stir gently to mix everything thoroughly so that each piece of pasta is coated in that delicious cheese sauce.
7. Let it Sit and Serve:
Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mac and cheese sit for about a minute to thicken up a bit more. When you’re ready to serve, dish it out into bowls and sprinkle a little paprika on top for color. You can also add some freshly chopped parsley if you like.
8. Enjoy!
Serve your creamy mac and cheese right away! For an extra comforting touch, consider serving it with some toasted bread on the side. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
This comforting dish is sure to bring smiles to the dinner table. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, you can use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for added flavor. Just ensure that the total amount remains the same for the best texture.
Can I Prepare This Mac and Cheese in Advance?
Yes! You can cook the macaroni and prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce, combine with the pasta, and heat through until everything is warm.
How Do I Make the Mac and Cheese Thicker?
If you’d like a thicker mac and cheese, you can add a bit more flour to the roux or let it simmer a little longer before adding the cheese. Alternatively, you can also increase the amount of cream cheese for extra creaminess!
What Are Some Good Toppings for Mac and Cheese?
For added texture and flavor, consider mixing in breadcrumbs, crispy bacon, or even sautéed vegetables. A sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs like parsley or chives also works great as a finishing touch!
