Creamy Cheddar Macaroni & Cheese
Indulge in a classic comfort food with this homemade version of macaroni and cheese, inspired by the beloved boxed variety. Using high-quality cheddar cheese powder from King Arthur Flour, this recipe delivers a rich and creamy sauce that envelops tender elbow macaroni, creating a deliciously nostalgic dish. While the cheese powder you choose will influence the final color and flavor of your mac and cheese, our version guarantees a satisfying bite that is both simple and cheesy. Perfect for kids and adults alike, this delicious dish can be ready in no time, providing a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful side for your next gathering. Customize it by adding extra ingredients like cooked proteins, vegetables, or spices to suit your taste!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
elbow macaroni
6 ounces (uncooked)
cheddar cheese powder
1/3 cup (dry)
butter
4 tablespoons (unsalted)
milk
1/4 cup (whole or your preferred type)
salt
to taste (optional)
Instructions
1
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the macaroni and return it to the pot.
2
Add the butter to the hot macaroni. Stir well until the butter has completely melted and coats the pasta evenly.
3
Sprinkle the cheese powder over the macaroni and pour in the milk. Gently mix everything together, ensuring all the macaroni is coated with the creamy sauce.
4
Taste the mac and cheese, adding salt as desired to enhance the flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Cheddar Macaroni & Cheese?
This is a homemade version of classic macaroni and cheese that uses cheddar cheese powder to create a rich, nostalgic sauce similar to boxed varieties.
How much macaroni is required for this recipe?
You will need 6 ounces of uncooked elbow macaroni.
What kind of cheese powder should I use?
The recipe recommends using high-quality cheddar cheese powder, such as the one from King Arthur Flour, for the best flavor and color.
How much butter do I need?
The recipe calls for 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
What type of milk is best for the sauce?
You can use 1/4 cup of whole milk or any milk type you prefer.
How should the macaroni be cooked?
Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water according to package directions until it is al dente.
When do I add the butter to the pasta?
Add the butter to the hot macaroni immediately after draining it so it melts completely and coats the pasta.
How do I make the cheese sauce?
Sprinkle the dry cheese powder over the buttered macaroni and pour in the milk, then gently mix until coated.
Can I add salt to this dish?
Yes, you should taste the finished macaroni and cheese and add salt as desired to enhance the flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes, it is a kid-friendly recipe designed to be simple, cheesy, and nostalgic.
How long does it take to prepare?
It is a quick meal that can be ready in the time it takes to boil and drain the pasta.
Can I add protein to this recipe?
Yes, you can customize it by adding cooked proteins like chicken, ham, or bacon.
Can I add vegetables to the macaroni?
Absolutely, vegetables like broccoli or peas make great additions to this dish.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
While elbow macaroni is classic, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like shells or fusilli.
What affects the final color of the mac and cheese?
The brand and type of cheese powder you choose will influence the final color and intensity of the flavor.
Should the butter be salted or unsalted?
The recipe specifies 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
Can I use spices in the sauce?
Yes, feel free to add spices like garlic powder or paprika to suit your personal taste.
Is this a good side dish?
Yes, it serves as a delightful side dish for gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner.
Do I need to make a roux for this sauce?
No, this recipe uses cheese powder, milk, and butter to create a quick sauce without needing a roux.
How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
Stirring the butter into the hot, drained macaroni immediately will help prevent sticking and create a base for the sauce.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You would need to use a dairy-free cheese powder, plant-based butter, and non-dairy milk to make it dairy-free.
Is the cheese powder added as a liquid?
No, the cheese powder is added in its dry form directly to the cooked pasta.
What is the texture of the sauce?
The sauce is rich and creamy, designed to envelop the tender elbow macaroni.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double all the ingredients to serve a larger group.
How should I serve this dish?
Serve it warm immediately after mixing for the best flavor and creamy texture.
What if my sauce is too thick?
If the sauce is too thick, you can add an extra splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
Does this taste like boxed mac and cheese?
Yes, it is inspired by the beloved boxed variety but uses high-quality ingredients for an upgraded homemade taste.
Is this recipe considered a comfort food?
Yes, it is categorized as a classic comfort food.
Do I need to rinse the pasta after draining?
No, do not rinse the pasta; you want it to remain hot so the butter and cheese powder can meld properly.
What is the prep status of the macaroni before cooking?
The macaroni should start as uncooked elbow macaroni.