This creamy and cheesy mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser! It’s got a rich taste thanks to the blend of cheeses and a touch of butter for extra goodness.
When I make this, I always feel like a hero in the kitchen. Just mix everything up, bake, and watch it disappear! Who can resist that cheesy goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: This cheese gives the mac and cheese a bold flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, try using medium Cheddar, or if you’re feeling adventurous, mix in some pepper Jack for a bit of spice!
Monterey Jack Cheese: It adds a creamy texture. As a substitute, you could use Gouda or even mozzarella for that stretchy quality. Both work well to keep it creamy.
Whole Milk and Heavy Cream: These are key for richness. If you’re looking to lighten it up, use 2% milk and skip the cream. It’ll still taste good, just less rich.
Elbow Macaroni: Classic choice! If you’re gluten-free, try a gluten-free pasta or use whole wheat for a nuttier flavor. Both will hold onto the cheese sauce well!
How Do You Make a Smooth Cheese Sauce Without Lumps?
Making a cheese sauce can be tricky, but with these steps, you can avoid lumps and achieve a creamy consistency:
- Start by whisking the flour into the melted butter to create a roux—this helps thicken your sauce.
- Gradually add the milk and cream. Pour slowly while whisking continuously, which helps prevent clumps.
- Cook the mixture until it thickens and bubbles, stirring frequently to keep it from sticking to the bottom.
- Once thickened, remove it from heat before adding the cheese to ensure it melts smoothly.
Paula Deen’s Mac And Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (8-ounce) package elbow macaroni
- 4 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder (optional)
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious mac and cheese recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to bake, giving you a total time of about 35-40 minutes. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Cook the Macaroni:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook it according to the package directions until just al dente, which should take about 7-8 minutes. Once done, drain it and set it aside for later.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking it for about 1-2 minutes. This helps create a smooth sauce!
3. Add Milk and Cream:
Next, gradually pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, continuing to whisk constantly to avoid any lumps. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble; this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season and Add Cheese:
Once the sauce is bubbly and thick, remove it from heat. Stir in the salt, black pepper, and the optional dry mustard powder. Now, add in the shredded sharp Cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Stir until everything is melted and beautifully smooth.
5. Combine with Macaroni:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Take the cooked macaroni and mix it well with the cheese sauce until all the pasta is coated in gooey goodness.
6. Transfer and Bake:
Transfer the cheesy macaroni mixture into a buttered baking dish. If you don’t have one, don’t worry; it can also be served straight from the pot! Place it in the oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until the edges are bubbling, and the top is lightly browned.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once the mac and cheese is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a minute. For a little extra flair, garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if you’d like. Now, dig in and enjoy this creamy, cheesy comfort food!
Enjoy your rich and creamy Paula Deen’s Mac And Cheese!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp Cheddar and Monterey Jack are classic choices, feel free to mix it up with Gouda, fontina, or even pepper Jack for a bit of spice. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt well for that creamy texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Mac and Cheese?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to reinvigorate the creamy texture if needed.
Can I Make This Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just cover it tightly. When you’re ready to bake, pop it in the oven; you may need to add an extra few minutes to the baking time.
Is There a Gluten-Free Version?
Definitely! Simply substitute the elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta. The cheese sauce remains the same, keeping that delicious creamy texture you love. Just check the labels to ensure all your ingredients are gluten-free!
