Creamy Mac and Cheese
Creamy mac and cheese has a luxurious sauce made of smoked cheddar and whole milk. It's the tastiest macaroni and cheese you will ever make.
Servings 8 people
Calories 488kcal
Ingredients
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated milk
- 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature and cut into cubes
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne
- 8 ounces smoked cheddar cheese, shredded and room temperature
- Paprika and chopped fresh parsley, optional (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni according to package directions, reducing the cook time by 1–2 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Return the pan to the heat and melt the butter over medium heat.
- Slowly whisk in the evaporated milk and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the cream cheese and whisk continuously until the sauce is smooth.
- Stir in the salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Let the mixture simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened.
- Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the smoked cheddar, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni and stir until the pasta is fully coated with the cheese sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed. Garnish the macaroni with chopped fresh parsley and paprika, if desired.
Nutrition
Serving: 1cup | Calories: 488kcal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 23g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 14g | Cholesterol: 10mg | Sodium: 515mg | Potassium: 217mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 140IU | Calcium: 487mg | Iron: 0.8mg
