The BEST Macaroni 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.

Get a saucepan to medium high heat and add 3 cups of heavy whipping cream.

In a bowl, mix 1 teaspoon each of smoked paprika, cajun seasoning, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Whisk the spices together while the cream heats up.

In another pot, bring water to a rolling boil, season with salt and a little olive oil, and cook 3 cups of elbow macaroni to al dente.

Once the cream is heated, slowly incorporate 1 cup each of colby jack, extra sharp cheddar, and smoked gouda cheese into the cream, whisking until melted and smooth.

Transfer the strained macaroni to a large bowl and add 1 cup of sour cream and 2 tablespoons of butter; mix until the butter is melted and the sour cream is incorporated.

Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni, ensuring it is generously covered.

Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish and top with more grated colby jack cheese.

Bake in the oven at 350°F for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is browned.

Let the mac and cheese rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens