Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe
A rich, velvety homemade mac and cheese with a trio of cheeses, buttery roux, and a hint of garlic. Perfect for cozy dinners or holiday sides.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Easy Chicken Recipes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
12 ounces elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk, warmed
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
Boil the pasta. Fill a large pot with water, add salt, and bring to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Make the roux. In a saucepan, melt butter, then whisk in flour for 1–2 minutes until golden.
Add the milk and cream. Gradually pour warmed milk into the roux, whisking. Add cream, and cook until the sauce thickens, 3–4 minutes.
Season the sauce. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to blend.
Incorporate the cheeses. Gradually add cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack, stirring until melted. Optionally grate in Parmesan for extra richness.
Combine with pasta. Add cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring until evenly coated.
Garnish and serve. Top with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Use al dente pasta for optimal texture.
For a thicker sauce, add more cheese.
Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Find it online: https://viralchickenrecipes.com/creamy-mac-and-cheese-recipe/