Mac and cheese is a timeless comfort food that never goes out of style. With its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy night in. Using Creamette pasta in our recipe ensures the perfect bite every time thanks to its sturdy shape and ideal cooking consistency.
We’ve crafted this Creamette Mac N Cheese recipe to combine rich, velvety cheese sauce with perfectly cooked pasta that holds up well without getting mushy. Whether you’re a mac and cheese enthusiast or looking for a reliable recipe to impress, this dish delivers classic flavors with a smooth, satisfying finish. Let’s dive into making a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that’s simple, delicious, and sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Creamette Mac N Cheese, we gather all the essentials that ensure a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying dish. Below you’ll find the key ingredients divided into three main components: pasta, cheese sauce, and additional flavorings.
Pasta
For the base of our classic mac and cheese, we rely on Creamette pasta because of its durability and ability to hold sauce beautifully without becoming mushy.
- 8 ounces Creamette elbow macaroni (about 2 cups dry)
Cheese Sauce
The richness of this recipe comes from a velvety cheese sauce made with carefully selected dairy and cheeses for depth and creaminess.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | For roux base |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup | To thicken sauce |
| Whole milk | 3 cups | Warmed for smoothness |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 2 cups shredded | Adds bold cheesy flavor |
| Colby or Monterey Jack cheese | 1 cup shredded | Smooth melting cheese |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | To taste |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Freshly ground preferred |
Additional Flavorings
To enhance the classic Creamette Mac N Cheese experience, we include subtle yet impactful flavor boosters.
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder (for a slight tang and depth)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (adds a gentle savory note)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional; introduces warmth and smokiness)
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Each ingredient plays a critical role in building our dish’s signature creamy texture and bold flavor profile, making this Creamette Mac N Cheese irresistible from the first bite.
Equipment Needed
To create our Creamette Mac N Cheese with perfect texture and rich flavor, having the right equipment is essential. Below is a list of tools we use for efficient preparation and cooking, ensuring consistent results every time.
- Large Pot: For boiling the Creamette elbow macaroni. We need enough space for the pasta to cook evenly without sticking.
- Colander: To drain the cooked pasta thoroughly while preventing excess water from diluting the sauce.
- Medium Saucepan: Used to prepare the roux and cook the cheese sauce. It allows precise heat control for creamy consistency.
- Whisk: Essential to combine the roux ingredients smoothly and incorporate the cheese without lumps.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Perfect for folding the cheese sauce into the pasta, preventing scratching the pan.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are vital for ingredients like butter, flour, milk, and seasonings.
- Grater: To shred sharp cheddar and Colby or Monterey Jack cheese fresh for the best melting and flavor.
- Ovenproof Baking Dish (Optional): If baking the mac and cheese to create a crispy top crust, use a 9×13-inch dish.
- Oven Mitts: Necessary for safe handling of hot cookware, especially if baking.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Pot | Boil Creamette elbow macaroni without sticking |
| Colander | Drain pasta effectively |
| Medium Saucepan | Cook roux and cheese sauce |
| Whisk | Smoothly blend roux and cheese |
| Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula | Stir sauce and mix pasta gently |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Ensure precise ingredient quantities |
| Grater | Shred cheese fresh for optimal melt |
| Ovenproof Baking Dish (Optional) | Bake mac n cheese for golden crust |
| Oven Mitts | Handle hot dishes safely |
Having all these tools at hand will help us prepare the Creamette Mac N Cheese with confidence and ease, setting the stage for creating that rich, creamy, and perfectly textured comfort food everyone loves.
Preparation
Let’s start by preparing the Creamette elbow macaroni and crafting the silky cheese sauce that makes this dish unforgettable. Each step is designed to ensure a rich, creamy texture and perfectly cooked pasta.
Preparing the Pasta
- Fill a large pot with 6 quarts of water. Bring it to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the boiling water. This seasons the pasta internally.
- Stir in 1 pound of Creamette elbow macaroni. Stir immediately to prevent sticking.
- Cook the pasta uncovered for 7 to 8 minutes, or until it is al dente — tender but still firm to the bite.
- Reserve 1 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse the pasta as the starch helps thicken the cheese sauce.
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Water volume | 6 quarts |
| Salt quantity | 1 tablespoon |
| Pasta amount | 1 pound Creamette elbow macaroni |
| Cooking time | 7 to 8 minutes |
| Pasta stage | Al dente |
Preparing the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to form a smooth roux. Cook for 2 minutes without browning to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add 4 cups of warm whole milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Colby or Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
- Add 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper to season.
- Enhance flavor by mixing in:
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Stir until the cheese melts fully and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- If the sauce is too thick, gradually whisk in reserved pasta water, 2 tablespoons at a time, until desired consistency is reached.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | Base for roux |
| All-purpose flour | 1/4 cup | Thickening agent |
| Whole milk (warm) | 4 cups | Creamy sauce base |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 2 cups shredded | Primary cheese flavor |
| Colby or Monterey Jack | 1 cup shredded | Adds creaminess |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Seasoning |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon | Seasoning |
| Dry mustard powder | 1/2 teaspoon | Flavor enhancer |
| Garlic powder | 1/4 teaspoon | Flavor enhancer |
| Smoked paprika | 1/4 teaspoon | Adds depth and warmth |
By following these steps, we lay the foundation for the classic Creamette Mac N Cheese you love: pasta cooked to perfection and a cheese sauce that coats every bite with creamy, cheesy goodness.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these precise steps to achieve the perfect Creamette Mac N Cheese with creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta. Each stage builds on the last to create a rich and flavorful final dish.
Cooking the Pasta
- Fill a large pot with 6 quarts of cold water. Add 2 tablespoons of salt for seasoning the pasta as it cooks.
- Bring water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add 1 pound of Creamette elbow macaroni to the boiling water.
- Stir immediately to prevent sticking.
- Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 7 to 8 minutes until pasta is al dente — tender but still firm to the bite.
- Before draining, reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water to adjust sauce consistency later if needed.
- Drain pasta in a colander and set aside.
Making the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Sprinkle in 6 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth roux.
- Cook roux for 1 to 2 minutes until it bubbles gently but does not brown.
- Gradually whisk in 4 cups of warm whole milk to avoid lumps.
- Continue whisking and bring to a simmer; cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in:
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Colby or Monterey Jack cheese
- Add 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, and ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika.
- Stir gently until the cheese melts fully and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
Combining Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- Return the drained Creamette elbow macaroni to the large pot or a mixing bowl.
- Pour the hot cheese sauce over the pasta.
- Gently fold the sauce into the pasta until every piece is fully coated with rich, creamy cheese.
- If sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water gradually until desired consistency is reached.
- For serving:
- Serve immediately for a creamy stovetop mac and cheese.
- Alternatively, transfer mixture to an ovenproof baking dish, top with extra shredded cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Water | 6 quarts | For boiling pasta |
| Salt | 2 tablespoons | To season pasta water |
| Creamette elbow macaroni | 1 pound | Cook until al dente |
| Unsalted butter | 6 tablespoons | For roux |
| All-purpose flour | 6 tablespoons | For roux |
| Whole milk (warm) | 4 cups | To make cheese sauce |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 3 cups shredded | Primary cheese for flavor |
| Colby or Monterey Jack | 1 cup shredded | Adds creaminess |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | For sauce seasoning |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Adds warmth |
| Dry mustard powder | ½ teaspoon | Adds depth |
| Garlic powder | ¼ teaspoon | Optional for flavor boost |
| Smoked paprika | ¼ teaspoon | Adds subtle smokiness |
Optional Add-Ins and Toppings
Enhance your Creamette Mac N Cheese experience by customizing it with flavorful add-ins and crispy toppings. These options can elevate the dish to suit any taste preference or occasion.
Protein Options
Incorporating protein into our Creamette Mac N Cheese transforms it into a more substantial meal. Consider these tasty choices:
- Crispy Bacon Bits: Cooked and crumbled for a smoky crunch.
- Grilled Chicken Strips: Sliced thin and seasoned with garlic or paprika.
- Ground Beef or Turkey: Browned with onions, adds hearty richness.
- Pulled Pork: Smoked or slow-cooked for a tender, savory addition.
- Sautéed Shrimp: Quickly cooked in garlic butter for a seafood twist.
Each protein adds depth and complements the creamy cheese sauce perfectly.
Vegetable Additions
Adding vegetables not only boosts nutrition but also adds vibrant color and texture contrast. Here are great options to mix in:
| Vegetable | Preparation Suggestion | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Roasted Broccoli | Roast until tender-crisp | Earthy, slightly sweet |
| Caramelized Onions | Slow cook until golden | Sweet and savory |
| Steamed Peas | Lightly steamed and drained | Sweet and fresh |
| Diced Red Bell Peppers | Raw or sautéed | Crisp and mildly sweet |
| Sun-dried Tomatoes | Chopped fine | Sweet, tangy, and chewy |
Vegetables lend fresh, vibrant notes that balance the rich cheese.
Crunchy Toppings
Topping our Creamette Mac N Cheese with a crunchy layer creates a delightful contrast to the creamy base. Here are popular choices:
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Tossed with melted butter and toasted until golden.
- Crushed Ritz Crackers: Adds buttery crispness.
- Toasted Parmesan Cheese: For a nutty, savory crust.
- Fried Onions: Store-bought or homemade for a crunchy, flavorful accent.
- Chopped Nuts: Such as toasted pecans or walnuts to introduce an unexpected crunch.
Using these crunchy toppings before baking ensures a golden-brown, irresistible crust.
We recommend experimenting with combinations of these add-ins and toppings for your personalized Creamette Mac N Cheese masterpiece.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate our Creamette Mac N Cheese experience, we can customize it with versatile serving options that complement its creamy texture and rich cheese flavor. Here are our top recommendations for serving this classic dish:
Protein Add-Ins
Adding protein transforms the meal into a hearty entrée. Consider these options for a boost of flavor and substance:
- Crispy bacon bits sprinkled on top add smoky crunch.
- Grilled chicken strips provide a tender, savory complement.
- Ground beef or turkey, cooked and seasoned, adds robust depth.
- Pulled pork introduces a smoky, juicy element.
- Sautéed shrimp lends a delicate seafood touch.
Vegetable Enhancements
Incorporate vegetables for nutrition and vibrant color. These choices pair beautifully with the cheese sauce:
- Roasted broccoli florets for a tender crisp contrast.
- Caramelized onions add sweetness and complexity.
- Steamed peas contribute a pop of freshness.
- Diced red bell peppers offer sweetness and crunch.
- Sun-dried tomatoes introduce a tangy richness.
Crunchy Toppings
A crisp topping adds texture contrast to creamy mac and cheese. We suggest these crowd-pleasing options:
| Topping | Description |
|---|---|
| Panko breadcrumbs | Light, crispy golden crust |
| Crushed Ritz crackers | Buttery crunch |
| Toasted Parmesan cheese | Nutty, savory crisp |
| Fried onions | Sweet, crispy bite |
| Chopped nuts | Crunchy, earthy flavor |
Baking for a Crispy Top
For a memorable finish, transfer the mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish. Sprinkle your choice of crunchy topping evenly on the surface. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until the topping turns golden brown and crisp. This step adds a delightful contrast to the creamy interior.
“The perfect bite of our Creamette Mac N Cheese blends creamy, cheesy sauce with a satisfyingly crisp topping.“
Serving Temperature
Serve the dish immediately from the stovetop for the creamiest texture or after baking for a warm, crunchy finish. If prepared in advance, gently reheat on low with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to maintain creaminess.
By experimenting with these serving suggestions we ensure our Creamette Mac N Cheese remains a comforting favorite that can be tailored for every occasion and taste preference.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Preparing Creamette Mac N Cheese ahead can save us time while preserving its creamy, cheesy delight. Follow these expert tips to maintain the perfect texture and flavor when making or storing this classic comfort dish.
Make-Ahead Instructions
- Cook and cool the pasta: Boil the Creamette elbow macaroni al dente, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Toss with a small amount of butter or oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the cheese sauce completely but do not combine with pasta if storing for more than a few hours.
- Combine pasta and sauce only if you plan to reheat within 1-2 hours. For longer storage, keep components separate.
Storage Guidelines
| Storage Method | Temperature | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 34°F to 40°F (1°C to 4°C) | 3 to 4 days | Store pasta and sauce in airtight containers separately to avoid sogginess. |
| Freezer | 0°F (-18°C) | Up to 2 months | Combine pasta and sauce before freezing for best texture. Thaw overnight in fridge before reheating. |
Reheating Tips for Best Texture
- Oven reheating: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mac and cheese to an ovenproof dish, cover loosely with foil, and bake 20–25 minutes until hot and bubbly. Remove foil last 5 minutes for a lightly browned top.
- Stovetop reheating: Warm gently over low heat stirring often. Add reserved pasta cooking water or a splash of milk to loosen thickened sauce.
- Microwave reheating: Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds on medium power, stirring between intervals. Add a tablespoon of milk if needed to keep sauce creamy.
“Storing pasta and cheese sauce separately is key to retaining the ideal creamy texture when making Creamette Mac N Cheese ahead.”
Freezing Bonus Tips
- Portion into single-serving containers for convenience.
- Label containers with date for easy rotation.
- Avoid freezing with crunchy toppings; add fresh breadcrumbs or nuts after reheating for best texture contrast.
Using these Make-Ahead and Storage Tips ensures that our Creamette Mac N Cheese stays deliciously creamy and ready whenever we crave this classic comfort food.
Conclusion
Making Creamette Mac N Cheese at home is a rewarding way to enjoy a timeless comfort dish with a perfect balance of creamy sauce and tender pasta. With the right ingredients and techniques, it’s easy to create a meal that satisfies both simple cravings and more adventurous tastes.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite add-ins and toppings, this dish promises consistent, delicious results every time. It’s a versatile favorite that fits any occasion and keeps everyone coming back for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Creamette pasta ideal for mac and cheese?
Creamette pasta is sturdy, cooks evenly, and holds up well without becoming mushy. Its elbow macaroni shape allows the cheese sauce to cling perfectly, creating a creamy, well-coated dish ideal for mac and cheese.
What are the main ingredients in Creamette Mac N Cheese?
The recipe uses Creamette elbow macaroni, unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, warm whole milk, sharp cheddar cheese, Colby or Monterey Jack cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional spices like dry mustard, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and fresh parsley.
What equipment do I need to make this mac and cheese?
You need a large pot for boiling pasta, a colander for draining, a medium saucepan to make cheese sauce, a whisk for blending, a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, measuring cups and spoons, a cheese grater, and optionally, an ovenproof dish for baking.
How do I cook the pasta perfectly for this recipe?
Boil 6 quarts of salted water, add 1 pound of Creamette elbow macaroni, and cook until al dente. Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce if needed, then drain the pasta before combining with the cheese sauce.
How is the cheese sauce prepared?
Melt butter, whisk in flour to make a roux, then slowly add warm milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Simmer until thickened, then stir in shredded cheeses and seasoning to create a smooth, creamy cheese sauce.
Can I add proteins or vegetables to the mac and cheese?
Yes, you can add crispy bacon, grilled chicken, ground meat, pulled pork, or shrimp for protein. Vegetables like roasted broccoli, caramelized onions, peas, red bell peppers, and sun-dried tomatoes add flavor and nutrition.
What are some crunchy topping options?
Try panko breadcrumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, toasted Parmesan, fried onions, or chopped nuts for a crispy contrast to the creamy mac and cheese. These toppings work great when baked to a golden finish.
How should I serve Creamette Mac N Cheese?
Serve it immediately for the creamiest texture or bake with a crunchy topping at 350°F (175°C) for a golden crust. It pairs well with added proteins, vegetables, and crunchy toppings for a complete meal.
Can I make Creamette Mac N Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, cook and cool pasta and sauce separately if storing for more than a few hours. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator or freezer. Reheat gently to maintain creaminess.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover mac and cheese?
Reheat in the oven, stovetop, or microwave gently, adding a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess. Avoid reheating with crunchy toppings if frozen to maintain texture.