Easy Homemade Mac and Cheese
Creamy and cheesy, this Easy Homemade Mac and Cheese recipe brings all the joy of the classic dish to your kitchen using a blend of flavorful cheeses.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 1 lb Cavatappi Pasta (or elbow, penne, farfalle)
Dairy and Butter
- 4 Tablespoons Butter
- 1.5 cups Whole Milk
- 1.5 cups Heavy Cream
- 8 ounces Sharp Cheddar (freshly grated)
- 8 ounces American Cheese (Boar's Head from the deli)
- 4 ounces Medium Cheddar Cheese (freshly grated)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1.5 teaspoons Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Dijon Mustard (may use 2 teaspoons)
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Don’t forget to salt the water to add flavor! Drain and set aside.
Making the Roux
- While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour for about 2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste.
Adding Dairy
- Slowly add the heavy cream and whole milk, about 1/4 cup at a time, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Seasoning the Sauce
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Melting the Cheese
- Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the American cheese, medium cheddar, and 4 ounces of sharp cheddar, stirring until melted and smooth. Keep the heat on low and whisk after each addition.
Combining with Pasta
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly. Pour this into a baking dish and sprinkle the remaining 4 ounces of cheddar cheese on top. Broil for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts, or bake at 350°F for about 12-15 minutes.
Serving
- Enjoy immediately for the creamiest texture. Sprinkle some dried parsley or extra paprika on top for a touch of color.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for the best flavor and meltability. Ensure the pasta is cooked just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Customize the seasoning with spices, hot sauce, or fresh herbs as desired. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-5 days.