365 Low-Fat Main Dishes — One Recipe for Every Day!
Easy, beginner-friendly, with full nutrition info.
👉 Download Now – Just $2.90!The harmonious balance of creamy cheese and tender pasta creates a memorable dining experience that will have everyone asking for your secret.
This ultra-creamy mac and cheese with cream cheese is a comfort food classic that elevates the traditional recipe to a new level of indulgence.
Whether you’re preparing a casual family dinner or hosting a special celebration, this mac and cheese delivers impressive results with its straightforward preparation.
I discovered this recipe during a cozy fall evening when the crisp air called for something warm and satisfying.
The rich, velvety sauce clings to every noodle, making it irresistible to both kids and adults alike.
The History and Cultural Significance
• Mac and Cheese traces its origins to Italy in the 14th century, where it was originally created by combining pasta with cheese.
• The dish evolved over decades as new ingredients like cheddar cheese became popular, eventually becoming the beloved version we know today.
• In American culture, this dish traditionally appears at family gatherings and holiday celebrations, symbolizing comfort and togetherness.
• While many variations exist across different regions, the authentic version maintains a creamy, cheesy sauce that sets it apart from imitations.
Recipe Overview
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Essential Equipment Guide
Large Pot: A heavy-duty pot is crucial for evenly cooking the pasta without sticking. Look for a pot with a thick base and sturdy handles. Alternatives include a Dutch oven.
Whisk: A good whisk is essential for creating a smooth cheese sauce without lumps. Look for one with a comfortable grip and flexible wires. A fork can be used in a pinch.
Baking Dish: A ceramic or glass baking dish ensures even heat distribution, resulting in a perfectly baked crust. Choose one that fits your oven well and has a non-stick surface.
Ingredients
For the Base
|
| Amount | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 12 ounces | elbow macaroni | cooked al dente |
For the Sauce
| Amount | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 4 tablespoons | butter | adds richness |
| 1/4 cup | all-purpose flour | thickens the sauce |
| 2 cups | milk | creates a creamy texture |
| 8 ounces | cheddar cheese | shredded, adds sharp flavor |
| 4 ounces | cream cheese | adds creaminess |
Seasonings
| Amount | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2 teaspoon | salt | enhances flavor |
| 1/4 teaspoon | black pepper | adds a hint of spice |
Preparation Methods
Roux Preparation: The roux is the base of our sauce, made by cooking flour and butter together. It's essential for thickening the sauce. Cook until it reaches a light golden color for the best results.
Cheese Melting: Slowly add cheese to the sauce to ensure it melts evenly without becoming grainy. Keep the heat low and stir continuously.
Pasta Cooking: Cook the pasta until just al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven. This prevents it from becoming mushy.
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7 minutes.
Drain the pasta and set aside.
Ensure the pasta is not overcooked as it will continue cooking in the oven.
Step 2: Prepare the Roux
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a roux.
Cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is light golden.
Ensure there are no lumps in the roux.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
Slowly pour the milk into the roux, whisking constantly.
Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Add the cheddar and cream cheese, stirring until fully melted.
Monitor the sauce to prevent it from becoming grainy.
Step 4: Season the Sauce
Add the salt and black pepper to the cheese sauce.
Stir well to combine all the flavors.
Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Ensure the sauce is well-seasoned before adding pasta.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce.
Stir gently to coat all the pasta evenly.
Ensure every piece of pasta is covered with the sauce.
The sauce should cling well to the pasta without being watery.
Step 6: Transfer to Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish.
Spread it out evenly, ensuring a flat surface.
Leave some space at the top to avoid overflow while baking.
Step 7: Bake the Mac and Cheese
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
Bake for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Check for a slightly crispy edge, indicating doneness.
Avoid overbaking to keep the dish creamy.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Serve the mac and cheese warm.
Ensure each serving has an equal amount of creamy sauce.
Critical Timing and Temperature Guide
Pasta Cooking: Cook the pasta for exactly 7 minutes until al dente. Overcooked pasta will become mushy during baking.
Baking: Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. Look for a bubbling top with golden edges. Avoid exceeding 20 minutes to prevent drying out.
Cheese Sauce Preparation: Keep the sauce on low heat to prevent scorching. Stir constantly and do not rush the melting process.
Pro Tips for Mac and Cheese
• Ingredient Selection: Choose high-quality cheddar and cream cheese for the best flavor and texture. Aged cheddar adds a depth of flavor.
• Preparation Secret: Adding cream cheese to the sauce creates an ultra-creamy texture that's often overlooked.
• Temperature Management: Use room temperature milk to prevent the sauce from curdling.
• Texture Enhancement: Stir the pasta gently to avoid breaking it, ensuring a uniform creamy coating.
• Flavor Layering: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a subtle depth of flavor.
• Make-Ahead Strategies: Prepare the cheese sauce a day in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently before using.
• Restaurant-Quality Finishing Touches: Top with breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy crust.
• Equipment Optimization: Use a whisk with flexible wires for a smoother sauce.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
• Texture Too Dense: This may occur if the pasta is overcooked or the sauce is too thick. Use precise cooking times and adjust the sauce consistency with milk.
• Flavors Unbalanced: If the dish tastes bland, check the seasoning levels and add more salt or cheese if needed.
• Sauce Grainy: Grainy sauce can result from overheating the cheese. Keep the heat low and stir continuously.
• Dry Mac and Cheese: Ensure there is enough sauce by measuring ingredients accurately. Avoid overbaking.
• Oily Top Layer: This happens if the cheese separates. Use cream cheese to stabilize the sauce and prevent separation.
Variations and Regional Differences
• Southern Style: This version includes a mix of cheddar and Colby cheese, often with a breadcrumb topping. It's known for its rich, buttery flavor.
• Italian Variation: Uses béchamel sauce as a base and incorporates Parmesan for a more savory taste.
• Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños and pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick, popular in Tex-Mex cuisine.
• Vegan Option: Substitute dairy with plant-based milks and cheeses. Nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor.
Food Science Behind the Recipe
• Emulsification: The process of blending butter and flour in the roux creates a stable base that helps thicken the sauce.
• Protein Coagulation: Cheese proteins coagulate when heated, transforming liquid milk into a thick sauce.
• Starch Gelatinization: Pasta releases starch as it cooks, which helps the sauce adhere to it, creating a cohesive dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most common mistake people make when preparing mac and cheese? Overcooking the pasta is a frequent issue. Always cook it until just al dente to prevent mushiness.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend to make the roux.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier? Substitute whole milk with skim milk and use reduced-fat cheeses, but note that creaminess may be affected.
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, mac and cheese can be frozen. Store in an airtight container and reheat in the oven.
How can I add more flavor? Experiment with spices like cayenne or smoked paprika, or add cooked bacon for extra depth.
Why is my sauce separating? This can happen if the sauce is overheated. Use low heat and stir continuously.
What is the best cheese combination? A mix of sharp cheddar and cream cheese is ideal for flavor and creaminess.
Serving and Presentation Guide
• Traditional Presentation: Serve in a large, rustic baking dish, garnished with parsley.
• Individual Portions: Use ramekins for single servings, topped with breadcrumbs for a personal touch.
• Family Style: Serve directly from the baking dish at the table, allowing guests to help themselves.
• Elegant Touch: Plate with a side salad for a balanced meal and a touch of color.
Conclusion
Embrace the comfort and nostalgia of this ultra-creamy mac and cheese with cream cheese.
With its rich sauce and tender pasta, it's sure to become a family favorite.
Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in a dish that's as satisfying to make as it is to eat.
