The Ultimate Creamy & Cheesy Holiday Mac and Cheese Recipe, Easiest Recipe Ever!!!

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheddar

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Lower calorie option and budget-friendly alternative.

cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: sour cream

More nutritious and cost-effective substitute.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Healthier fat source and often cheaper.

Fill a pot halfway with water, add salt, and bring to a boil.

Add elbow macaroni and cook for 6 minutes until al dente, stirring constantly to prevent sticking.

Drain the macaroni and set aside.

Return the pot to medium heat, ensuring it is dry, and add 5 tablespoons of butter to melt.

Once melted, add 5 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.

Add dried mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt, mixing until fragrant.

Slowly pour in 2 cups of milk while mixing, then add 3 cups of heavy cream slowly, whisking until combined.

Allow the sauce to come to a simmer and thicken for about 3 minutes, adjusting salt to taste.

Add 6 cups of freshly grated cheese in three parts, mixing until melted on low heat.

Turn off the heat and mix in the macaroni with the cheese sauce.

Prepare the breadcrumb topping by mixing 1 cup of plain panko with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and a little paprika.

Layer half of the macaroni and cheese in a buttered baking dish, add more cheese, top with the remaining macaroni, and finish with breadcrumb topping.

Bake in the oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens