This Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food! It’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. With a blend of cheeses and a buttery finish, it’s a dish everyone will love.
Honestly, who can resist gooey cheese? I often make a big batch for family gatherings—there’s never any left! Just mix, bake, and enjoy the cheesy goodness.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic pasta choice for mac and cheese. If you want to mix it up, try cavatappi or shells which hold cheese sauce beautifully, or even gluten-free pasta if you’re avoiding gluten.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This cheese gives a strong, tangy flavor. You can substitute it with medium cheddar for a milder taste, or for a different twist, use pepper jack for some heat.
Colby-Jack Cheese: This mix of Colby and Monterey Jack offers creaminess. If you’re out of Colby-Jack, feel free to use any mild melting cheese like mozzarella or even a mix with gouda for added richness.
Cream Cheese: It keeps the mac and cheese super creamy. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a non-dairy cream cheese for a similar effect or silken tofu to maintain smoothness.
Whole Milk: Whole milk provides richness, but you can use 2% or even almond milk for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that it might affect the creaminess slightly.
How Do You Make the Creamiest Cheese Sauce?
Creating a creamy cheese sauce can be tricky, but it’s all about the right steps. Here’s how to ensure your mac and cheese is smooth and decadent:
- Start by melting the butter over medium heat without letting it brown. This gives your sauce a great base.
- Mix in the cream cheese first, stirring until it becomes smooth. This helps avoid clumps later on.
- When adding the milk, do it slowly while whisking continuously. This prevents any separation and keeps the sauce uniform.
- Stir in the cheeses gradually. Allow each addition to melt fully before adding the next. This step makes sure every bit is incorporated evenly.
Following these tips will give you a deliciously creamy mac and cheese. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
Paula Deen’s Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (16-ounce) elbow macaroni pasta
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Colby-Jack cheese (or Monterey Jack)
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious mac and cheese takes about 15 minutes of prep time, and around 25-30 minutes to bake. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect side dish or comfort food for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This way, it’s nice and hot by the time your mac and cheese is ready to go in!
2. Cook the Pasta:
Next, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (which means firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the softened cream cheese and stir until it’s completely smooth.
4. Add Milk and Cheese:
Gradually stir in the whole milk, mixing until it’s well combined and heated through. Now it’s time to add your shredded sharp cheddar cheese and Colby-Jack cheese. Stir continuously until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is nice and smooth.
5. Season and Combine:
Season your cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Then, add your drained macaroni to the cheese sauce, and stir well to coat all the pasta evenly.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Transfer your mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. If you’d like, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve warm and get ready to enjoy this ultimate creamy, cheesy mac and cheese inspired by Paula Deen!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is the classic choice, you can also use cavatappi, shells, or any other pasta that holds cheese sauce well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose!
How Do I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the cheese sauce and mix it with the pasta in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, just pour it into your greased baking dish and add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through.
Can I Freeze Leftover Mac and Cheese?
Yes! To freeze leftover mac and cheese, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven or microwave.
What Can I Add to Enhance the Flavor?
For extra flavor, try adding cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or jalapeños for a bit of spice. You can also sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy texture!
