Introduction
Extra Creamy Classic Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, offering a velvety, indulgent cheese sauce enveloping tender pasta. It combines the perfect balance of rich, creamy cheese and a hint of tanginess, making it a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. Whether you’re enjoying it as a side dish or a hearty main course, this mac and cheese delivers the perfect melt-in-your-mouth experience. With the richness of cream, butter, and cheese, this mac and cheese will elevate your dinner table and leave everyone craving more. It’s the kind of dish that feels like home, perfect for cozy nights, family gatherings, or any occasion when you want something comforting and satisfying. The texture is just right, the flavor is spot-on, and it’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make over and over again.
The History of Extra Creamy Classic Mac and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century, with early versions appearing in both Europe and the United States. It’s believed that Thomas Jefferson introduced macaroni and cheese to America after sampling it in Europe. He even had a pasta machine imported to his estate in Virginia, where he served macaroni and cheese at his dinners. Over the centuries, mac and cheese evolved, with different variations becoming popular in various regions. The addition of cream and cheese to pasta became a staple in American cooking by the early 20th century. Extra creamy versions, like the one in this recipe, became popular in the mid-1900s, with the rise of processed cheese and cream-based sauces. The dish has remained a timeless comfort food that continues to be a favorite for people of all ages. Today, mac and cheese is considered the quintessential comfort food, with endless variations found in homes and restaurants worldwide.
Ingredients Breakdown
To make Extra Creamy Classic Mac and Cheese, you’ll need elbow macaroni, the traditional pasta used in most mac and cheese recipes. The creamy base starts with butter, which helps create a silky texture for the sauce. All-purpose flour is then added to form a roux, which thickens the sauce. Whole milk is preferred for richness, but heavy cream can be used for an extra indulgent twist. Sharp cheddar cheese is the star of the dish, giving it that classic tangy flavor, while mild cheddar helps create a smooth, creamy texture. For a more complex flavor, you can also add a bit of cream cheese or Gruyère. Seasonings such as salt, pepper, and mustard powder enhance the cheese’s natural flavor. A pinch of garlic powder and paprika adds a little extra depth. Topping the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs gives it a crunchy, golden finish, creating a perfect contrast to the creamy, cheesy base.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, making sure to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk for about 5 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add the reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Stir in the mustard powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated.
- Optional: For a crispy topping, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Extra Creamy Classic Mac and Cheese
- For an ultra-creamy mac and cheese, use a combination of whole milk and heavy cream. The higher fat content will give your sauce a rich, velvety texture.
- Grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the sauce.
- If you want to make the sauce even creamier, add a few tablespoons of cream cheese or mascarpone to the cheese sauce.
- When combining the pasta and cheese sauce, make sure to stir gently but thoroughly to ensure that all the pasta is evenly coated.
- If you want to add a bit of tang, try incorporating a splash of Dijon mustard or a small amount of lemon juice to the cheese sauce.
- For extra flavor, try using a combination of cheeses like Gruyère, mozzarella, or even a bit of Parmesan for depth.
- Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will absorb too much sauce and lose its texture. Aim for al dente pasta for the best result.
- When broiling, keep an eye on the dish to avoid burning the breadcrumbs. You want a golden, crispy crust, not a charred one.
Variations and Customizations
Extra Creamy Classic Mac and Cheese can easily be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or incorporate diced jalapeños into the cheese sauce. If you prefer a more savory mac and cheese, mix in crumbled bacon, sautéed onions, or caramelized garlic. To make it a complete meal, you can add vegetables like roasted broccoli, spinach, or tomatoes. For a smoky flavor, try adding smoked Gouda cheese or incorporating a bit of smoked paprika. If you’re looking to make it lighter, substitute some of the heavy cream for low-fat milk or use a combination of plant-based milk and non-dairy cheese for a dairy-free version. For gluten-free mac and cheese, use gluten-free pasta and a cornstarch-based roux in place of flour.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
While Extra Creamy Classic Mac and Cheese is undoubtedly delicious, it’s also a rich and indulgent dish. It’s high in calories, fat, and sodium due to the butter, cheese, and milk used. However, mac and cheese also offers some nutritional value—cheddar cheese is a good source of calcium, protein, and vitamins A and D. To make it a bit healthier, consider reducing the amount of butter and cheese or opting for a lighter cheese like part-skim mozzarella. You can also add vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower to increase the fiber and nutrient content. For those with dietary restrictions, mac and cheese can be modified to be gluten-free or dairy-free by using alternative ingredients. Keep in mind that mac and cheese is a comfort food that is best enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake or following a specific diet plan.
FAQ
- Can I make mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the mac and cheese ahead of time. Prepare the sauce and pasta, then refrigerate them separately. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and pasta together on the stove, adding a little milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also freeze the dish, though the texture may change slightly upon reheating. - What can I use instead of heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk in place of heavy cream. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut milk or a non-dairy cream substitute. - How can I make mac and cheese more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, try adding different cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda, or a sharp blue cheese. You can also incorporate herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage to give the dish more complexity. Adding garlic, mustard, or hot sauce can bring an extra punch of flavor. - Can I make mac and cheese without a roux?
Yes, you can skip the roux by using a cheese sauce recipe that thickens with cornstarch or arrowroot powder. However, the roux adds a smooth texture and rich flavor that’s hard to replicate without it. - Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, to make gluten-free mac and cheese, simply substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour substitute, like cornstarch or rice flour, in place of the all-purpose flour for the roux.
Extra Creamy Classic Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- ▢3 cups dry macaroni noodles
- ▢5 tablespoons butter
- ▢4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ▢2.5 cups milk I use 2%
- ▢1.5 cups heavy cream or whipping cream
- ▢2.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ▢1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ▢½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ▢½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ▢½ teaspoon onion powder
- ▢Pinch of smoked paprika
- ▢Salt and pepper to taste I use at least ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Boil the macaroni noodles in a large pot of salted water according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook the mixture, whisking constantly, for 2-3 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
- Gradually pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Keep cooking the mixture, whisking often, until it thickens and reaches a simmer.
- Lower the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, mustard powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until the cheese fully melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked macaroni noodles to the cheese sauce, stirring until the noodles are evenly coated and glossy.
- Enjoy your extra creamy and cheesy mac and cheese!
Notes
This recipe serves 4-6 people, or even more if you’re serving it as a side dish.
