Macaroni and cheese is a timeless comfort food that never goes out of style. Using Creamette pasta gives this classic dish a perfect texture that holds up well to the creamy cheese sauce. We love how Creamette’s quality ensures every bite is satisfying and full of flavor.
This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a rich and velvety macaroni and cheese that’s easy to make any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish delivers that nostalgic taste with a homemade touch. Let’s dive into making a creamy, cheesy meal that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect Creamette Macaroni and Cheese, we start with simple, quality ingredients that come together to create a delectably creamy and cheesy dish. Here’s everything we need, categorized for convenience.
Dry Ingredients
- 8 ounces of Creamette elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (for the pasta water)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional, for seasoning)
Dairy Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2 cups whole milk | Warmed for creamy cheese sauce | |
| 3 tablespoons unsalted butter | Melted for the roux base | |
| 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour | Used to thicken the cheese sauce | |
| 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese | shredded | For classic sharp flavor |
| 1 cup mozzarella cheese | shredded | Melts smoothly for extra creaminess |
| 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese | grated | Adds a nutty, tangy depth |
Additional Ingredients and Toppings
- 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, enhances flavor complexity)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, adds subtle smokiness)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crunchy topping)
- Olive oil or melted butter (for toasting breadcrumbs)
“Using Creamette pasta ensures that our macaroni maintains the perfect bite and absorbs the cheese sauce beautifully for maximum flavor in every spoonful.”
This ingredient list is designed to balance simplicity and richness, making the Creamette Macaroni and Cheese both delightfully creamy and satisfying.
Tools and Equipment
To make our Creamette Macaroni and Cheese recipe turn out perfectly creamy and flavorful, having the right Tools and Equipment on hand is essential. Each tool plays a specific role in achieving the ideal texture and melt of the cheese sauce and perfectly cooked macaroni.
Essential Tools
- Large Pot: Use a spacious pot to boil the Creamette elbow macaroni. It ensures even cooking without sticking together.
- Colander: For draining pasta quickly and efficiently once cooked al dente.
- Medium Saucepan: We rely on this for melting butter and whisking together the roux base (flour and butter) for the cheese sauce.
- Whisk: Crucial for blending the roux smoothly and incorporating milk to create a velvety sauce without lumps.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Perfect for folding the cheese into the sauce and combining it with the cooked macaroni gently yet thoroughly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement of ingredients like milk, butter, and seasonings ensures consistent flavor and texture.
Optional but Recommended
- Oven-Safe Baking Dish: If you want a baked finish to your macaroni and cheese with a crunchy golden topping, this bakeware will be your best friend.
- Grater: Freshly grated sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses melt better and provide a richer flavor compared to pre-shredded options.
- Breadcrumbs: For that extra crispy topping, we suggest lightly toasting them in butter before sprinkling.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Pot | Boiling Creamette elbow macaroni evenly |
| Colander | Draining cooked pasta |
| Medium Saucepan | Making cheese sauce base (roux and milk) |
| Whisk | Smoothing sauce and blending ingredients |
| Wooden Spoon/Spatula | Stirring sauce and folding cheese into macaroni |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Precise measurement for consistent taste |
| Oven-Safe Dish | Optional baking for crispy topping |
| Grater | Freshly shredding cheese for enhanced melt and flavor |
| Breadcrumbs | Optional crispy topping |
“Using the right tools helps us create a luxuriously creamy and smooth Creamette Macaroni and Cheese every time.“
By preparing each tool before we start, we streamline the cooking process and focus on building bold cheesy flavors that make this dish a favorite comfort meal for all occasions.
Prep Work
Before diving into cooking, thorough preparation sets us up for success with our Creamette Macaroni And Cheese Recipe. Let’s get everything ready step-by-step to ensure smooth and efficient cooking.
Preparing the Macaroni
- Start by measuring 8 ounces of Creamette elbow macaroni. Using Creamette is essential as it provides the perfect texture to hold the cheese sauce beautifully.
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water to enhance the pasta’s flavor as it cooks.
- Carefully add the pasta to the boiling water. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook the macaroni for 7-8 minutes, or until al dente—tender but still firm to the bite. This ensures the pasta won’t become mushy once mixed with the cheese sauce.
- Drain the cooked pasta thoroughly using a colander. Set aside to drain completely. Avoid rinsing as the starch on the pasta helps the sauce cling better.
Preparing the Cheese Sauce Ingredients
- Gather all dairy and seasoning ingredients before starting the sauce. This keeps the process seamless.
- Measure and have ready:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Whole milk | 2 cups | Room temperature preferred |
| Unsalted butter | 4 tablespoons | Cut into pieces for easy melting |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 2 cups shredded | For bold, tangy flavor |
| Mozzarella cheese | 1 cup shredded | Adds creamy stretchiness |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup grated | Enhances depth and nuttiness |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon | Optional, for subtle tang |
| Smoked paprika | ½ teaspoon | Optional, for a smoky hint |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Adjust seasoning last |
- Grate any block cheeses fresh for optimal melt and flavor. Freshly grated cheeses blend smoothly and create a silkier sauce texture.
- Have a whisk and medium saucepan at hand. We will melt butter and gradually incorporate milk and cheese here to build our luscious sauce.
Pro Tip: Bringing your milk to room temperature prevents curdling during sauce preparation and ensures a velvety consistency.
With these preparations complete, we are perfectly positioned to move on to crafting the rich, creamy cheese sauce that brings our Creamette Macaroni And Cheese to life.
Directions
Follow these steps carefully to create the perfect Creamette Macaroni and Cheese with a rich, velvety texture and robust cheesy flavor.
Cooking the Macaroni
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water to season the pasta.
- Add 8 ounces of Creamette elbow macaroni to the boiling water.
- Cook the macaroni for 7 to 8 minutes until it reaches al dente texture — tender but still slightly firm to the bite.
- Drain the cooked macaroni in a colander and set aside. Avoid rinsing to retain the starches which help the sauce cling to the pasta.
| Step | Time | Key Point |
|---|---|---|
| Boiling water | 5 min | Salt water generously |
| Cooking macaroni | 7-8 min | Cook al dente, do not overcook |
| Draining pasta | Immediate | Do not rinse |
Making the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, whisk in 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour, stirring constantly to form a smooth roux. Cook for 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste without browning.
- Gradually whisk in 2 cups of whole milk (preferably at room temperature) in small increments to prevent lumps.
- Continue whisking over medium heat until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheese blend:
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Add 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika to enhance the flavor. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Stir until the cheeses completely melt and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Pro Tip: Using room temperature milk prevents curdling and ensures a luxuriously smooth cheese sauce.
Combining Macaroni and Cheese Sauce
- Add the drained macaroni directly into the cheese sauce pot.
- Gently fold the pasta with the sauce using a silicone spatula until all macaroni pieces are evenly coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. The pasta should be glossy and richly coated with the velvety cheese sauce.
Baking Instructions (Optional)
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a buttered, oven-safe baking dish.
- For a crispy topping, sprinkle ½ cup of breadcrumbs evenly over the surface.
- Optional: dot with a few small knobs of butter to enhance browning.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Remove from oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving to set the sauce.
| Baking Step | Temperature | Time | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 350°F | – | Ready for baking |
| Bake | 350°F | 20-25 minutes | Crispy, golden crust |
| Cooling | Room temp | 5 minutes | Sauce sets for serving |
We recommend baking for added texture but the Creamette Macaroni and Cheese is equally delightful when served directly from the stovetop, showcasing its signature creamy richness.
Serving Suggestions
To fully enjoy our Creamette Macaroni and Cheese, let us explore some delicious serving ideas that complement its rich, creamy texture and cheesy flavor.
- Classic Side Pairing: Serve the macaroni alongside crisp steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. The fresh crunch balances the creamy richness perfectly.
- Protein Pairings: Add grilled chicken breasts, baked ham, or crispy bacon on the side to turn this into a hearty meal. The smoky, savory notes enhance the cheesy goodness.
- Toppings for Texture: Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese or toasted breadcrumbs over the mac and cheese. For a flavorful twist, add a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky heat.
- Baked Variation: If you prefer a crunchy finish, transfer the mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish. Top with a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses plus a layer of breadcrumbs. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Garnishes: Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives add color and a hint of freshness. For a spicy kick, drizzle a little hot sauce or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes.
Serving Temperature Tips
| Serving Method | Temperature | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Stovetop | Hot and creamy | Serve immediately for best texture |
| Baked | Warm with crispy top | Let rest 5 minutes before serving |
“For the ultimate indulgence, serve our Creamette Macaroni and Cheese piping hot, as this maintains its signature creamy, velvety texture that melts in your mouth.”
By pairing our Creamette Macaroni and Cheese with these suggestions, we transform a classic comfort food into a versatile and satisfying dish that suits any palate and occasion.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Creamette Macaroni and Cheese in advance saves us time and ensures a seamless meal when needed. Follow these streamlined make-ahead steps to enjoy that same rich, creamy experience without the last-minute rush.
Cook and Cool the Pasta Ahead
- Boil 8 ounces of Creamette elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Toss the pasta lightly with a small amount of butter or oil to prevent sticking.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce in Advance
- Follow the recipe to make the cheese sauce by whisking together butter, flour, milk, and cheeses.
- Allow the sauce to cool completely at room temperature (no more than 2 hours).
- Transfer the sauce to a sealed container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Before combining with pasta, gently reheat the sauce over low heat while stirring frequently to restore its creamy texture.
Assemble and Store
- Combine the reheated cheese sauce with the pre-cooked pasta.
- For a stovetop serving, gently warm the combined mixture until heated through.
- For a baked version, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, add optional toppings such as breadcrumbs or extra cheese, then bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Recommended Storage Times
| Item | Refrigerator Storage Time | Freezer Storage Time (Optional) |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked Pasta | 24 hours | Up to 1 month |
| Cheese Sauce | 24 hours | Up to 1 month |
| Assembled Dish | 24 hours | Up to 1 month |
Tips for Best Results
- Always cool ingredients before refrigerating to keep texture and flavor intact.
- Stir the reheated cheese sauce gently to avoid separation or curdling.
- If freezing, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat slowly.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is essential to maintain the creamy texture and rich flavor of our Creamette Macaroni and Cheese. Follow these guidelines to keep it fresh and delicious for later servings.
Cooling and Refrigeration
- After cooking, allow the macaroni and cheese to cool to room temperature. Avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
- Transfer the dish into an airtight container, or cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil for best results.
- Store in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C).
- Consume within 3 to 5 days for optimal freshness and safety.
| Storage Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Cooling Time | 20-30 minutes at room temperature |
| Storage Container | Airtight or tightly covered |
| Refrigerator Temp | 40°F (4°C) or below |
| Recommended Duration | 3 to 5 days |
Freezing for Longer Storage
- For extended storage, place cooled macaroni and cheese into a freezer-safe container.
- Label with the date to track freshness.
- Freeze for up to 2 months without significant loss of flavor or texture.
- To thaw, transfer to the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
| Freezing Step | Details |
|---|---|
| Container | Freezer-safe airtight container |
| Freeze Duration | Up to 2 months |
| Thawing | Overnight in refrigerator |
Reheating Instructions
- Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave to preserve creaminess.
- Stir frequently when reheating to avoid scorching and to evenly redistribute heat.
- If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of whole milk or cream while reheating to restore smooth texture.
- For baked macaroni and cheese, reheat covered in the oven at 325°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
“Reheating with care is key to keeping our Creamette Macaroni and Cheese deliciously creamy and full of flavor.”
By adhering to these Storage Tips, we ensure enjoying our classic comfort dish anytime without compromising its signature velvety mouthfeel.
Conclusion
Creamette Macaroni and Cheese is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s a dish that’s simple to make yet impressive in taste.
Whether you prefer it straight from the stovetop or baked to golden perfection, this recipe adapts to your mood and occasion. By following the steps and tips we’ve shared, you can consistently create a delicious, crowd-pleasing macaroni and cheese that feels like home in every bite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of pasta is best for macaroni and cheese?
Creamette elbow macaroni is recommended for its perfect texture and flavor, which helps the pasta maintain a good bite and absorb the cheese sauce well.
What cheeses are used in Creamette Macaroni and Cheese?
A blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses is used to create a rich, creamy, and flavorful macaroni and cheese.
Can I bake the macaroni and cheese?
Yes, baking for 20-25 minutes at 350°F with a breadcrumb and cheese topping adds a crispy texture but it can also be served creamy straight from the stovetop.
Do I need any special tools for this recipe?
Essential tools include a large pot for boiling pasta, a colander, a medium saucepan for the sauce, and a whisk. Optional tools are a baking dish and a grater.
How do I prevent the cheese sauce from curdling?
Bring the milk to room temperature before adding it to the roux. This helps maintain a smooth, velvety cheese sauce.
What are some good side dishes for macaroni and cheese?
Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, and proteins such as grilled chicken, baked ham, or crispy bacon complement this dish well.
Can I prepare Creamette Macaroni and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can cook and cool the pasta and cheese sauce in advance. Store separately in the fridge and gently reheat before combining.
How should I store leftovers?
Store cooled macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months for longer storage.
What optional ingredients can enhance the flavor?
Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, toasted breadcrumbs, and fresh herbs are great additions to boost flavor and texture.
Is it better to serve macaroni and cheese hot or cold?
For best taste and texture, serve Creamette Macaroni and Cheese hot, whether fresh from the stove or after baking.