The Ultimate Creamy and Cheesy Macaroni and Cheese Recipe | Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheese lowers calories while processed cheese is often less expensive.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil provides healthier fats while margarine is a budget-friendly alternative.

milk

🥗Healthier: almond milk

💰Cheaper: water + cornstarch

Almond milk is lower in calories, and a cornstarch mixture can mimic creaminess.

elbow macaroni

🥗Healthier: whole wheat pasta

💰Cheaper: generic pasta

Whole wheat pasta adds fiber while generic options are often cheaper.

Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions and set aside.

Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over low heat.

Add heavy cream to the melted butter and keep the heat low.

Season the mixture with paprika, chicken bouillon, garlic powder, black pepper, and onion powder; stir well.

Add shredded cheeses (medium sharp cheddar, fontina, cream cheese, pepper jack, and velveeta) to the mixture and stir until melted.

Taste the mixture and add 0.5 teaspoons of salt if needed.

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until well combined.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens