Prince Pasta Mac And Cheese Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic

Prince Pasta Mac And Cheese Recipe is a timeless comfort food that never goes out of style. A fan of comfort food, you know that nothing beats a warm, cheesy bowl of mac and cheese.

Today, I’m sharing my favorite version of this classic dish: the Prince Pasta Mac and Cheese Recipe. It’s simple, creamy, and packed with flavor.

I love how easily you can make it from scratch, and with Prince pasta, the texture is just perfect. Cooking for yourself or your family, this dish will quickly become a go-to.

The best part? You only need a few basic ingredients to create something delicious and satisfying. Let me show you how to make the ultimate comfort food with my step-by-step guide!

Why This Recipe Is A Must-Try?

This Prince Pasta Mac And Cheese Recipe is a must-try because it combines the perfect balance of creamy texture and rich flavor.

The simple ingredients make it an accessible dish for any home cook, and the step-by-step process ensures anyone can master it.

What makes this recipe stand out is the use of Prince pasta, which holds up beautifully in the cheese sauce, providing that ideal bite.

It’s customizable too—whether you prefer sharp cheddar, adding extra spices, or even baking it for a crispy topping, you can make it your own.

This dish is perfect for cozy nights in or family gatherings, delivering comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become a favorite in my kitchen!

How To Prepare Prince Pasta Mac And Cheese Recipe

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 25 minutes

Total time: 35 minutes

Course: Main Course, Side Dish

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: American

Yield:  Serves 4

Kitchen Utensils

Before you start, make sure you have the following kitchen tools:

• Large pot
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Baking dish (if you want to bake it)
• Colander
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups

Ingredients

For this Prince Pasta Mac And Cheese Recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 8 oz Prince pasta (elbow macaroni or any of your preferred shapes)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp for extra flavor)
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for extra creaminess and flavor)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

How To Make Directions

Step 1.

Cook the Prince Pasta: First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your Prince pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 5-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Step 2.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the flour, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux. Cook for 8-10 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.

Step 3.

Add Dairy Slowly: whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 20-25 minutes. Reduce the heat to low.

Step 4.

Add Seasoning and Cheese: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Once the sauce has thickened, add the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 5.

Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy cheese sauce.

If you like your mac and cheese extra creamy, feel free to add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6.

Optional Baking (for a Crispy Top): If you want to bake your mac and cheese, transfer the pasta and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.

Top with breadcrumbs and a little extra cheddar cheese for a golden, crispy finish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.

Step 7.

Serve and Enjoy!: Serve your Prince Pasta Mac and Cheese in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if you like. Enjoy it as a side or a main dish!

Special Notes

You can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time. Simply cook the pasta and make the cheese sauce, then store them separately in the fridge. ready to serve, combine them, heat, and enjoy. You can even bake it for a crispy topping!

If you want to make the dish a bit heartier, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms. For protein, crispy bacon or grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with this creamy mac and cheese.

Nutrition Facts Prince Pasta Mac And Cheese Recipe

Each serving of this Prince Pasta Mac And Cheese Recipe offers a delicious balance of flavors and textures. Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving:

• Calories: 400
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 22g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g
• Calcium: 25% of daily value

Baking Tips Prince Pasta Mac And Cheese Recipe

1. Use a Deep Dish: When baking, use a deep baking dish to ensure the mac and cheese is fully covered with sauce and has enough room to cook evenly.

2. Add a Crispy Topping: For a golden, crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs (preferably panko) mixed with melted butter and extra cheese over the mac and cheese before baking.

3. Bake at the Right Temperature: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

4. Cover for Moisture: Cover your dish with foil for the first 10-15 minutes of baking to keep the mac and cheese moist, then uncover to allow the top to crisp up.

5. Rest Before Serving: Let the baked mac and cheese rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. This helps the sauce set and makes it easier to serve.

Storages Information Prince Pasta Mac And Cheese Recipe

To store your Prince Pasta Mac And Cheese Recipe, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

 If you have leftovers, simply reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creaminess.

For longer storage, you can freeze the Prince Pasta Mac And Cheese Recipe for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat until warmed through. The baked version also freezes well, just be sure to add the crispy topping after reheating.

Health Benefits

1. Good Source of Protein: The combination of cheese and pasta in this Prince Pasta Mac And Cheese Recipe provides a decent amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.

2. Calcium-Rich: The cheese in the recipe is a great source of calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth, making this dish beneficial for bone health.

3. Energy Boosting: The pasta provides carbohydrates, which are an excellent source of energy. This makes the dish a great option for refueling after physical activity.

4. Customizable with Veggies: You can add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or peas to your mac and cheese to increase fiber and vitamin content, making the dish even healthier.

5. Supports Digestive Health: When made with whole grain pasta, this dish provides extra fiber, which helps promote healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.

What Pasta Is Best For Homemade Mac And Cheese?

For homemade mac and cheese, elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but any short, sturdy pasta works well.

Penne, cavatappi, or rotini are great alternatives because their shapes hold onto the creamy cheese sauce perfectly, ensuring every bite is filled with flavor.

What Is The Trick To Keeping Mac And Cheese Creamy?

To keep mac and cheese creamy, the key is to not overcook the pasta and to use a combination of milk and heavy cream in the sauce.

Additionally, gradually add cheese into the sauce while stirring to avoid clumps. If the sauce thickens too much, add more milk or cream to restore its smooth texture.

Can You Freeze Mac And Cheese?

Yes, you can freeze mac and cheese! To freeze, let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the oven.

Do You Use Bags Of Shredded Cheese Or Freshly Grated?

Freshly grated cheese is always the best choice for mac and cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of the sauce. Freshly grated cheese melts better and creates a creamier, smoother sauce.

What Can I Add To Mac And Cheese For Flavor?

To boost the flavor of mac and cheese, try adding spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or mustard powder.

A dash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or paprika can add heat and depth. You can also mix in cooked bacon, caramelized onions, or fresh herbs like thyme for added richness.

Do I Have To Use 2% Milk?

No, you don’t have to use 2% milk. You can use whole milk for a richer, creamier texture, or even substitute with a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly.

Can I Double This Recipe?

Yes, you can easily double this recipe! Just make sure to adjust the size of your pot or baking dish accordingly.

You might need to extend the cooking time slightly if you’re baking it. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed when doubling the ingredients.

Conclusion

The Prince Pasta Mac And Cheese Recipe is a simple and satisfying dish that combines creamy cheese sauce with perfectly cooked pasta.

The Prince Pasta Mac and Cheese Recipe is the perfect dish for any occasion. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of comforting flavors.

Cooking for yourself or sharing it with family, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare, with simple ingredients that deliver a delicious meal every time.

The best part is how customizable it is—add your favorite cheese, seasonings, or even a crunchy topping if you like. This dish is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.

I hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as I do. Don’t forget to experiment with the variations I’ve shared to make it your own! Happy cooking!