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Best Creamy Macaroni And Cheese Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food! This creamy macaroni and cheese recipe, adapted from a Southern Living classic (1993), delivers a rich and satisfying experience. Get ready for perfectly cooked pasta smothered in a luscious cheese sauce. Optional crunchy cracker topping adds extra texture. This is the BEST mac and cheese you'll ever make!

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 50 mins
Calories 301 kcal
Protein 21g
Rating 5.0 (7 Reviews)
Best Creamy Macaroni And Cheese

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Best Creamy Macaroni And Cheese

  • Water
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • Sour Cream
  • Mayonnaise
  • Cheese Crackers
  • 1 teaspoon salt

How to Make Best Creamy Macaroni And Cheese

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth.
  4. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth and thickened. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Stir in salt, pepper, cheddar cheese, Gruyère cheese, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Stir in cooked macaroni until well coated.
  7. Pour macaroni and cheese into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  8. If desired, sprinkle with crushed crackers.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Elevate your dish with simple flavor boosters! A final flourish of freshly chopped herbs can add incredible brightness, while a squeeze of lemon or lime juice right before serving can awaken all the flavors. Don't underestimate a sprinkle of quality finishing salt or a drizzle of good olive oil to make your creation shine.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

21 g

Sugar

5g

Fat

48g

Carbs

6g

Recipe Categories (Choose a category and find related recipes!)

60 Minutes Or Less Time To Make Course Main Ingredient Preparation Occasion For Large Groups Lunch Main Dish Eggs Dairy Pasta Oven Easy Kid Friendly Vegetarian Cheese Dietary Comfort Food Low Carb Egg Free Free Of Something Low In Something Pasta Rice And Grains Elbow Macaroni Taste Mood Equipment Number Of Servings