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Creamy Mac and Cheese

Creamy Mac and Cheese That Will Make You Feel Right at Home

This Creamy Mac and Cheese is the perfect comfort food, delivering indulgent creaminess in just 25 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Uncooked Macaroni Feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shape!
  • 4 cups Water Use 1-2 cups more than the amount of pasta for optimal cooking.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream Consider half-and-half or milk for a lighter version.
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Any sharp cheese like Grana Padano can work as a substitute.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Try Fontina or Gruyère for a different flavor profile.
For Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to your preference.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper Freshly ground black pepper is preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Substitute with fresh minced garlic for a bolder taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Minced shallots or onions may also work.
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Adjust to your taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Mustard Dijon mustard is recommended.
  • 1 teaspoon Sugar Essential for flavor enhancement.

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by grating the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Gather all other ingredients including macaroni, heavy whipping cream, and seasonings.
  2. In a large pot, combine the uncooked macaroni and enough water to cover it completely. Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat (about 5-7 minutes).
  3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook the macaroni for 6-8 minutes, or until al dente, ensuring enough water remains in the pot.
  4. Lower the heat to low, add the heavy whipping cream, and stir to combine. Gradually add the grated cheddar, mozzarella, and seasonings while stirring continuously until the cheese melts and sauce thickens (3-5 minutes).
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with additional cheese or paprika if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 16gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 400mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Reserve some starchy pasta water before draining to help achieve a smooth and creamy mac and cheese.

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