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Easy Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe

Easy Homemade Mac and Cheese Recipe
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★★★★★

5.1 from 12 reviews

This Easy Homemade Mac and Cheese recipe features a creamy, cheesy sauce made with a blend of sharp cheddar, American cheese, and medium cheddar. The sauce is perfectly seasoned with paprika, garlic powder, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, then combined with al dente cavatappi pasta for a comforting, delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 lb Cavatappi Pasta (or elbow, penne, farfalle)

Sauce

  • 4 Tablespoons Butter
  • 1/4 cup Flour
  • 1 1/2 cups Whole Milk
  • 1 1/2 cups Heavy Cream
  • 8 ounces Sharp Cheddar (freshly grated)
  • 8 ounces American Cheese (Boar’s Head from the deli, cut into small pieces)
  • 4 ounces Medium Cheddar Cheese (freshly grated)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1 teaspoon Pepper
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard (may use 2 teaspoons)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Generously salt the water to infuse flavor into the pasta. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the Roux: While the pasta water is heating, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste to avoid raw flour taste.
  3. Add Dairy: Gradually pour in the heavy cream and whole milk, about 1/4 cup at a time, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  4. Season the Sauce: Stir in the Dijon mustard, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as desired.
  5. Melt the Cheese: Reduce heat to low. Add the American cheese in small pieces, then add 4 ounces medium cheddar and 4 ounces sharp cheddar, whisking constantly until smooth and melted. Add cheese gradually to ensure a smooth sauce.
  6. Combine with Pasta: Stir the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce to coat evenly. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle with the remaining 4 ounces of sharp cheddar cheese. Broil for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly, or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes.
  7. Serve: Serve immediately for the creamiest texture. Optionally, garnish with dried parsley or additional paprika.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting texture and flavor.
  • Broiling at the end creates a nice golden top; keep a close eye to prevent burning.
  • You may substitute other pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or penne.
  • Adjust seasonings to taste, especially salt, depending on the cheese’s saltiness.
  • For a thicker sauce, reduce the milk slightly or cook the roux longer before adding liquids.

Nutrition

Keywords: homemade mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, cavatappi mac and cheese, cheesy pasta recipe

Find it online: https://cheframiflavor.com/easy-homemade-mac-and-cheese-recipe/