Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe

Introduction

This creamy mac and cheese recipe combines tender cavatappi pasta with a rich, cheesy sauce that’s perfectly smooth and comforting. It’s a timeless classic that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy any cheese lover’s cravings.

Ingredients

• 1 pound cavatappi shells
• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup milk (any kind, 2% recommended)
• 1¼ cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot, cook the cavatappi pasta in boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a medium pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, salt, and black pepper to create a roux. Stir constantly until the mixture is smooth and bubbling.
3. Step 3: Slowly add the milk and heavy cream while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Continue heating over medium heat until the mixture bubbles and thickens slightly.
4. Step 4: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and smooth. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and toss to coat evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of milk to reach the desired consistency.
5. Step 5: Let the macaroni and cheese sit for about 5 minutes to thicken before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, sprinkle in garlic powder, paprika, or onion powder when making the roux.
• Try using different pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or penne if cavatappi isn’t available.
• Swap sharp cheddar for smoked gouda or Gruyère for a unique twist.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use low-fat milk instead of whole milk or cream?

Yes, you can use low-fat or skim milk, but the sauce may be less rich and creamy. Adding cream helps achieve the ideal texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

Make sure to add cheese off the heat or over very low heat and stir gently until melted. Overheating can cause the cheese to separate and become grainy.

Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 100 reviews

This creamy mac and cheese recipe features tender cavatappi pasta enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce made from cheddar and mozzarella cheeses blended with a smooth butter and flour roux. It’s a classic comfort food prepared on the stovetop, offering a perfect balance of creamy texture and cheesy flavor that’s ideal for a cozy meal.

• Author: Rico
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 1 pound cavatappi shells

Sauce

• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup milk (2% recommended)
• 1¼ cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Cook Pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the cavatappi shells according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set it aside for later use.
2. Make Roux: In a medium pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour, salt, and black pepper to form a smooth roux. This will serve as the thickening base for the cheese sauce.
3. Add Milk and Cream: Gradually pour in the milk and heavy whipping cream while continuously whisking to combine. Continue heating over medium heat until the mixture begins to bubble and thickens slightly, forming a creamy base for the sauce.
4. Incorporate Cheese: Lower the heat to low and add shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir gently until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce becomes smooth and velvety. If the sauce is too thick, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk incrementally to achieve the desired consistency.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked cavatappi pasta into the cheese sauce, tossing thoroughly to ensure each piece is well coated with the creamy sauce.
6. Rest and Thicken: Allow the mac and cheese to sit for 5 minutes off the heat so that the sauce thickens further and flavors meld together before serving.

Notes

• For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic powder, paprika, or onion powder into the roux stage.
• Use 2% milk for balanced richness; however, whole or skim milk can be substituted depending on preference.
• Ensure not to overcook the pasta to maintain a perfect al dente texture that holds up well in the creamy sauce.
• If the sauce becomes too thick after resting, stir in a small splash of milk to loosen it.

Keywords: creamy mac and cheese, stovetop mac and cheese, cavatappi pasta, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, comfort food, easy macaroni and cheese