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Perfect Mac and Cheese

Indulge in this creamy, luxurious mac and cheese that will transport you back to warm memories and satisfy your cravings with its rich cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Pasta and Dairy
  • 1 lb cavatappi pasta Can substitute with elbow, penne, or farfalle.
  • 1.5 cups whole milk Can substitute with almond or oat milk for dairy-free.
  • 1.5 cups heavy cream Half-and-half can also work.
Cheese
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded) Feel free to mix with mozzarella.
  • 8 oz Boar's Head American cheese (diced) Velveeta can be an alternative.
  • 4 oz medium cheddar cheese (freshly shredded) Use gouda for a smoky note.
Flavorings
  • 4 tbsp butter Can use olive oil for a lighter option.
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour Gluten-free flour works if needed.
  • 1 tsp salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1 tsp black pepper Use white pepper for a milder taste.
  • 1.5 tsp paprika Smoked paprika is a great alternative.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Fresh minced garlic works well.
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard Can adjust up to 2 tsp for taste.

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. In a large pot of salted water, bring to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Making the Sauce
  1. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly until it forms a smooth paste.
  2. Gradually add heavy cream and milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Allow it to thicken, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Stir in Dijon mustard, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Adjust to your taste preference.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Reduce heat to low. Gradually add the diced American cheese, shredded medium cheddar, and half of the sharp cheddar. Stir until melted and smooth.
  2. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to ensure even coating. Transfer to a baking dish.
Final Touch
  1. Sprinkle the remaining sharp cheddar over the top. Broil for 2-3 minutes or bake at 350°F for 12-15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Serving
  1. Enjoy immediately for the creamiest texture; garnish with parsley or paprika if desired.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting qualities. Consider adding cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for a variation. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix.