Creamy Macaroni and Cheese
This is my absolute favorite macaroni and cheese recipe, and I have a large collection of mac and cheese recipes. Adapted from Southern Living. I don't make this very often because I could literally eat the whole thing and lick the dish clean.
This is my absolute favorite macaroni and cheese recipe, and I have a large collection of mac and cheese recipes. Adapted from Southern Living. I don't make this very often because I could literally eat the whole thing and lick the dish clean.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup butter or 1/2 cup margarine
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic granules
- 2 packages sharp cheddar cheese shredded and divided (i use cracker barrel)
- 1 package extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (i use crack
- 1 package elbow macaroni cooked
- Carbohydrate 98.9767115767006 g
- Cholesterol 162.695000137534 mg
- Fat 52.1991534140237 g
- Fiber 3.34393981086259 g
- Protein 27.8635669792174 g
- Saturated Fat 31.7152878877366 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving(s) (588g)
- Sodium 302.719696264191 mg
- Sugar 95.632771765838 g
- Trans Fat 3.25025832881533 g
- Calories 973 calories
Step-by-step
- In a big skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
- Whisk the flour in gradually until the mixture is smooth.
- Cook and whisk continually for 2 minutes.
- Add in salt, pepper, cayenne, and garlic; stir to combine.
- Gradually whisk in half-and-half and milk.
- Cook and whisk continually for 8-10 minutes or until mixture is thickened.
- Add in half of the sharp cheddar cheese; stir.
- Add in all of the extra-sharp cheddar cheese; stir until smooth.
- Take skillet off stove burner.
- Mix together the cooked macaroni and cheese mixture; transfer to a greased 13x9 inch casserole dish.
- Sprinkle with the remaining sharp cheddar cheese.
- Bake in a 350° oven for 20 minutes (may need to bake longer for a crispy top).
My Favorite Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe
Let me tell you, friends, I love macaroni and cheese. I mean *really* love it. I’ve probably tried (and perfected!) a hundred different recipes over the years, but this one? This one reigns supreme. It's creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible. It's adapted from a Southern Living recipe, and while I don’t make it often (self-preservation, you know?), when I do, it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser – and a danger to my waistline! Seriously, I could devour the whole pan in one sitting. The cheesy goodness is just that addictive.
This isn't your average boxed mac and cheese. This recipe elevates the classic dish to a whole new level. The combination of sharp and extra-sharp cheddar cheeses creates a rich, complex flavor that will have you reaching for seconds (or thirds!). The creamy sauce, made with a roux of butter and flour, is velvety smooth and perfectly coats each strand of pasta. And don't even get me started on that perfectly browned, bubbly top after it comes out of the oven. Heaven.
I remember the first time I made this recipe. It was a chilly autumn evening, and the aroma of melted cheese filled my kitchen. The family gathered around the table, and the happy sighs as everyone took their first bite were music to my ears. It’s become a cherished family tradition, a warm hug on a plate that always brings us together. It's a dish that transcends mere sustenance; it evokes memories, feelings, and a deep sense of comfort. It's the kind of dish that makes you feel loved, nurtured, and undeniably happy.
Beyond the personal memories, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your own preferences. Want a spicier kick? Add a pinch more cayenne pepper. Prefer a different type of cheese? Go for it! Monterey Jack, Gruyere, even a blend of cheeses would work wonderfully. Feel free to experiment and make it your own. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability.
But here's the thing: while the recipe is simple, it is also deeply satisfying. It's the kind of food that reminds you of home, of family, of those comforting moments that make life worth living. It's a dish that speaks to the soul, a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into something truly extraordinary.
So, next time you're craving comfort food, look no further. This Creamy Macaroni and Cheese is the perfect remedy for a chilly evening, a cozy night in, or simply a craving for pure cheesy bliss. Just be warned: you might find yourself licking the dish clean!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup butter or 1/2 cup margarine
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic granules
- 2 packages sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 package extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 package elbow macaroni, cooked
Enjoy!
