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Best Creamy Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe

Best Creamy Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe - Cheap Delicious Meals

Ah, creamy mac and cheese. Some folks say it’s the ultimate comfort food. I can vouch for that. Growing up, I remember my grandmother making a version of this dish that would hug your insides and make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. 
Today, I want to share an exciting approach to this classic recipe. This isn’t just any mac and cheese. It’s the best creamy homemade mac and cheese you’ll ever make.
Perhaps you’re skeptical or wondering what makes my recipe stand out from the numerous variations you can find online. Trust me; I’ve tried many recipes and refined this one through trial and error. 
Each time I made it, I gathered insights and tips to create something simple yet extraordinarily satisfying. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into this cheesy adventure!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • Cheese Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons salted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder optional but recommended
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded 2 cups
  • ¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika

Method
 

Step 1: Boil the Pasta
  1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Cook according to package instructions—usually around 8 to 10 minutes—until al dente. Stir occasionally; no one likes sticky pasta. Once it’s cooked, drain and put aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
  1. In the same pot, melt the 2 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Once it’s bubbling, whisk in the 2 tablespoons of flour. Cook for about one minute until it forms a paste. This is your roux, and it helps thicken the cheese sauce.
Step 3: Pour in the Milk
  1. Gradually whisk in the cup of whole milk. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth, then simmer for about 2 minutes. You should start to see it thicken up a bit.
Step 4: Add Seasonings
  1. Next, stir in the garlic powder, sea salt, and smoked paprika. The seasoning brings out the flavor of the cheese. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in a pinch of black pepper.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
  1. Slowly mix in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir consistently until it melts and becomes silky smooth. If you like extra cheesiness, add more cheese! Incorporate the sour cream or Greek yogurt and Dijon mustard at this point for the ultimate creaminess.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
  1. Finally, add the drained elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce. Stir until every noodle is covered with that golden goodness.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
  1. Now the moment you’ve been waiting for: dish it out! Serve hot and enjoy the flavors that dance on your palate. You can garnish it with a sprinkle of paprika or some herbs for that finishing touch.

Notes

  • Use High-Quality Cheese: Always opt for blocks of cheese to shred yourself. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess.
  • Don't Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better when mixed with cheese, plus it continues to cook when baking.
  • Experiment with Cheese Varieties: Try a mix of cheeses. Gouda or Monterey Jack can add different flavors.
  • Bake It for a Crunchy Top: Transfer to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs mixed with butter, and bake until golden. A crunchy layer can elevate the comfort level.
  • Add Extras: If you want to level up, sauté some onions, garlic, or mushrooms to mix through. Broccoli or bacon are popular additions as well.