Cooking Creamettes Mac And Cheese Recipe is like wrapping my kitchen in a cozy, comforting hug. This dish combines tender elbow macaroni with a luscious, creamy cheddar cheese sauce, subtly enhanced by a touch of dry mustard for that perfect flavor boost.
It’s a timeless American comfort food that always brings smiles to the faces of family and friends. When I prepare Creamettes Mac And Cheese Recipe, I’m reminded of those special people friends and loved ones who cherish simple, heartfelt meals.
Walking them through each easy step, from crafting the roux to melting in the cheese, turns cooking into a shared moment of joy and connection..
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This Creamettes Mac And Cheese Recipe offers a rich and creamy texture that melts beautifully with sharp cheddar, creating a deeply satisfying flavor.
The balance of tangy cheese and smooth sauce gives every bite a comforting warmth. It comes together quickly, making it a convenient choice when time is limited.
The simple ingredients are easy to find, and the cooking process is straightforward, even for beginners.
Creamettes Mac And Cheese Recipe brings a sense of nostalgia and homeliness, making it a dish that brings people together around the table.
How To Prepare Creamettes Mac And Cheese Recipe?
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Difficulty: Easy
Yield: 4
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander (for draining pasta)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater (if shredding cheese yourself)
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
How To Make Creamettes Mac And Cheese Recipe
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, until the mixture becomes slightly golden and bubbly. This cooks out the raw flour taste.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the dry mustard powder and salt. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens and starts to bubble gently, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir gently until all pasta is evenly coated.
5. Serve the Creamettes Mac And Cheese Recipe hot. Optional: garnish with a sprinkle of extra cheese or paprika..
Special Notes
2. Adjust for Dietary Needs: For a gluten-free version, simply swap out the elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta. You can also use dairy-free cheese and milk for a vegan version.
3. Seasoning Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add more salt or pepper if you prefer a bolder flavor, or try adding herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.
Nutrition Facts Creamettes Mac And Cheese Recipe
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 370 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 36g |
| Fat | 19g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Sodium | 580mg |
Best Serving Ideas
1. Top with crispy breadcrumbs or fried onions for a crunchy contrast.
2. Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives to brighten the flavor.
3. Serve alongside roasted vegetables such as broccoli or Brussels sprouts for a balanced meal.
4. Pair with smoky grilled chicken or BBQ ribs to complement the creamy cheese.
5. Mix in cooked bacon or caramelized onions for an extra savory twist.
6. For a fun twist, scoop into bell peppers and bake until golden.
Tips And Variations
Tips:
1. Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Grating your own cheese ensures it melts smoothly without clumping, giving you that perfectly creamy texture.
2. Add a Touch of Mustard: A tablespoon of Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang that enhances the flavor of the cheese sauce and balances the richness.
3. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Make sure to cook your pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly once mixed with the cheese sauce. Overcooking can make the pasta mushy.
4. Make the Sauce Ahead: You can prepare the cheese sauce in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, just reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta.
5. For Extra Creaminess: Add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of cream cheese to the sauce for a richer, velvety texture.
Variations:
1. Creamy Garlic Parmesan: Add minced garlic and a generous amount of grated Parmesan to the cheese sauce for a rich, savory twist.
2. Buffalo Mac and Cheese: Stir in some buffalo sauce and shredded chicken for a spicy, tangy flavor that’s perfect for fans of bold tastes.
3. Smoky Mac and Cheese: Mix in smoked cheese, such as smoked Gouda, or add a dash of liquid smoke for a smoky depth of flavor.
4. Veggie Mac and Cheese: Boost the nutrition by adding vegetables like sautéed spinach, roasted sweet potatoes, or peas for a more colorful and hearty dish.
5. Mac and Cheese with a Crunch: Top your mac and cheese with crushed potato chips, fried onions, or breadcrumbs for an irresistible crispy topping.
How to Store Leftovers?
Allow leftover Creamettes Mac and Cheese Recipe to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
Freezing is not recommended, as Creamettes Mac and Cheese Recipe may alter the texture. Proper storage keeps the dish flavorful and enjoyable for future meals.
FAQs for Creamettes Mac and Cheese Recipe
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute sharp cheddar with cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or rice flour.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can make the cheese sauce in advance and store it in the fridge, then cook and mix the pasta just before serving.
How can I make it creamier?
Adding a little extra milk or a splash of cream while stirring helps achieve a richer, creamier texture.
Can I bake the mac and cheese after preparing it?
Yes, pour it into a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Conclusion
My experience making Creamettes Mac and Cheese Recipe was truly enjoyable simple, comforting, and full of rich flavors that brought smiles to everyone at the table.
The process was easy and rewarding, turning basic ingredients into a delicious, creamy dish. I hope you try this recipe yourself and create wonderful moments in your kitchen, just like I did.
Creamettes Mac and Cheese Recipe a timeless favorite that’s sure to become one of your go-to meals!
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Creamettes Mac and Cheese Recipe
Equipment
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander (for draining pasta)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater (if shredding cheese yourself)
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly, until the mixture becomes slightly golden and bubbly. This cooks out the raw flour taste.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the dry mustard powder and salt. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens and starts to bubble gently, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir gently until all pasta is evenly coated.
- Serve the creamy mac and cheese hot. Optional: garnish with a sprinkle of extra cheese or paprika.
Notes
Nutrition Facts Creamettes Mac And Cheese Recipe
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 370 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 36g |
| Fat | 19g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 5g |
| Sodium | 580mg |
Hi, I’m Delina, a housewife, mother of two living in the suburbs of Vancouver, Canada. I’m a professional recipe developer and food photographer behind thefoodscraft.com. Although I was trained in biological technology for lab work, my heart is in the kitchen. Growing up, family dinners were a nightly tradition, and as a single mom of two, I was determined to keep that alive. With limited ingredients, I discovered the magic of transforming basic items into cozy family meals, which inspires all my recipes. In 2017, I started thefoodscraft.com, sharing budget-friendly recipes and tips.
