Ultimate Creamy Mac and Cheese

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Ultimate Creamy Mac and Cheese.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C).

2. Step 2

   While that warms up, grab a 9x13-inch baking dish and give it a light spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

3. Step 3

   Next, fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.

4. Step 4

   Once boiling, toss in the elbow macaroni along with 2 ½ teaspoons of kosher salt.

5. Step 5

   Cook the pasta for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently until it reaches that perfect al dente texture.

6. Step 6

   Once done, drain the macaroni and set it aside, letting it cool a bit.

7. Step 7

   Now, let’s get cheesy! Shred your sharp Cheddar cheese using a grater or a food processor, and set it aside for later.

8. Step 8

   In a large saucepan, melt some butter over medium heat.

9. Step 9

   Once it’s melted, whisk in the flour and let it cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring constantly until it’s nice and smooth.

10. Step 10

    Next, add in the ground mustard, and gradually whisk in 3 ½ cups of milk.

11. Step 11

    Keep whisking occasionally until the mixture starts to simmer, then let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes.

12. Step 12

    It’s time to make it creamy! Stir in the softened cream cheese and keep cooking, stirring often, until the sauce is thick, creamy, and smooth—this should take around 5 minutes.

13. Step 13

    Season it with the remaining 1 ½ teaspoons of salt, a dash of black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re feeling adventurous.

14. Step 14

    Once that’s all mixed in, remove the saucepan from the heat and fold in 2 cups of the shredded Cheddar cheese until it melts beautifully into the sauce.

15. Step 15

    Gently mix in the cooked macaroni, adding up to ¼ cup more milk if the mixture feels too thick.

16. Step 16

    Now, let’s layer this deliciousness! Start by spreading half of the macaroni and cheese mixture in the bottom of your prepared baking dish.

17. Step 17

    Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of shredded Cheddar cheese over that layer, then spread the remaining macaroni mixture on top.

18. Step 18

    Finish it off with the rest of the Cheddar cheese, creating a cheesy masterpiece.

19. Step 19

    Pop the dish into your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

20. Step 20

    Once it’s done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

21. Step 21

    Enjoy your homemade macaroni and cheese, a comforting dish that’s sure to bring smiles to the table!.