This creamy and cheesy mac and cheese is a comfort food favorite! With gooey cheddar and a crispy topping, it’s perfect for family dinners or just a cozy night in.
Honestly, what’s better than cheesy pasta? I like to sneak in a side salad to feel a bit healthier, but let’s be real—it’s all about that cheesy goodness! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice for mac and cheese, but you can swap it with any pasta shape like shells or rotini for a fun twist!
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This is essential for that bold cheese flavor. If you want something milder, feel free to use medium cheddar. For a different taste, try a blend with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack.
Whole Milk & Heavy Cream: This combo creates a rich and creamy texture. If you need a lighter option, you can use 2% milk instead of whole milk, but it will not be as creamy.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds depth; you can leave it out if you don’t have any or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Breadcrumbs: They give a crunchy topping. Panko crumbs are great for extra crispiness! You can also use crushed crackers or even chips for a different texture.
How Do You Make Perfectly Creamy Macaroni and Cheese?
Making the cheese sauce right is key! Start by creating a roux, which helps thicken the sauce. Don’t rush this step; it helps the sauce be smooth and not grainy. Here’s how:
- Begin with melted butter and whisk in flour until blended.
- Slowly add milk and cream while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Cook until the sauce thickens to coat the back of a spoon, this should take about 5-7 minutes.
Once your sauce is ready, mix in the cheese until melted. This is where you can taste and adjust seasoning! Happy cooking!
Paula Deen’s Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (16 oz) package elbow macaroni
- 4 cups sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus around 25-30 minutes to bake. Altogether, you’ll need around 45 minutes to whip up this creamy and cheesy delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, get your oven ready by preheating it to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish or a Dutch oven to keep everything from sticking.
2. Cook the Macaroni:
While the oven heats, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (not too soft!). Drain the macaroni and set it aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Keep whisking for about 2 minutes until it’s golden and smooth.
4. Add Milk and Cream:
Slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Keep cooking and whisking until the mixture thickens, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in the Cheese:
Take the saucepan off the heat and mix in 3 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and smooth. Add the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. Combine with Macaroni:
Now, stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce so that every piece of pasta is coated with that creamy cheesy goodness!
7. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish or leave it in the Dutch oven. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top. If you like, mix the Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs and sprinkle that mixture over the cheddar for a crunchy topping.
8. Bake:
Pop it in the oven uncovered and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. For an extra special crispy top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes—just keep a close eye to avoid burning!
9. Cool and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. If you want, garnish it with some fresh parsley or chives before serving.
10. Enjoy!
Serve it hot and enjoy the delicious, creamy, and cheesy goodness of Paula Deen’s Mac and Cheese. Perfect as a side dish or even a main course!
This classic recipe is sure to become a family favorite, perfectly balancing a creamy cheese sauce with a golden, crisp topping. Enjoy every cheesy bite! 😋
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional, you can mix it up using Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even Pepper Jack for a little kick. Just ensure you have a good melting cheese for that creamy texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or in a baking dish in the oven at 350°F until heated through. You might want to add a splash of milk to help restore creaminess!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the macaroni and cheese up to a day in advance. Just follow the recipe until the baking step, then cover and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding about 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
What Can I Serve With This Mac and Cheese?
This mac and cheese is a great main dish on its own, but you can serve it alongside grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal. Enjoy it as a comforting side dish for family gatherings!
