Creamette Macaroni and Cheese Recipe Made Easy

Macaroni and cheese is a timeless comfort food classic that never fails to bring warmth and satisfaction to the table. Using Creamette macaroni elevates this dish to a new level with its perfect texture and ability to hold creamy cheese sauce beautifully.

Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing side dish for gatherings, this recipe delivers rich, creamy, and cheesy goodness with minimal effort.

This creamette macaroni and cheese recipe balances simplicity with indulgence, combining a smooth cheese sauce with perfectly cooked pasta. You’ll love how the pasta maintains its bite without becoming mushy, while the cheese sauce hugs every curve.

Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is approachable for beginners and satisfying for seasoned cooks alike.

Get ready to dive into a bowl of cheesy comfort that’s perfect on its own or paired with your favorite proteins and veggies. Let’s explore why this recipe is a must-try and how you can make it your own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out because of the unique qualities of Creamette macaroni—its ideal thickness and shape create the perfect canvas for creamy cheese sauce. Unlike other pasta brands, Creamette has a slightly firmer texture that holds up well when baked or stirred, allowing for a luscious and satisfying mouthfeel.

The cheese sauce is rich but not overwhelming, made with a blend of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella for depth and meltiness. Plus, this recipe is flexible—you can easily adjust the cheese types or add your favorite mix-ins like bacon, herbs, or veggies.

Whether you want a stovetop version or a baked casserole, this recipe adapts well to your preferences and timing. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces Creamette macaroni (about 2 cups)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk, warmed
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a subtle smoky flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder (optional, for extra cheese kick)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping, optional)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (for baked topping, optional)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander for draining pasta
• Medium saucepan for cheese sauce
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Mixing bowl (if baking)
• Baking dish (optional, for baked version)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

1. Cook the Creamette macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the Creamette macaroni and cook according to package instructions (usually 7-8 minutes) until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns golden and bubbly. This cooks out the raw flour taste.
3. Add the milk: Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, making sure to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and begins to bubble gently, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Incorporate the cheese: Lower the heat to low and add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and dry mustard powder if using.
5. Combine pasta and cheese sauce: Add the cooked Creamette macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently until all pasta is coated evenly.
6. Serve or bake: For stovetop mac and cheese, serve immediately. For a baked version, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, top with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Tips & Variations

Make sure to warm your milk before adding it to the roux to avoid lumps and speed up the thickening process.

For a creamier sauce, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream or add a dollop of cream cheese.

• Add-ins: Stir in cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for extra flavor and texture.
• Cheese swaps: Try gouda, fontina, or pepper jack for a different twist on the classic flavor.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour alternatives to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the cheese sauce for some heat.
• Vegan version: For a dairy-free option, check out our guide on vegan cheese substitutions.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This creamy macaroni and cheese pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

It’s also a great side for grilled chicken, pork chops, or barbecue ribs.

For a fun twist, top with crispy fried onions or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Leftovers reheat well in the microwave or oven, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.

Looking for more delicious comfort food ideas? Check out our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious or try the hearty flavors of our Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide.

Conclusion

Making macaroni and cheese with Creamette macaroni is a simple yet exceptional way to enjoy this beloved comfort food. The pasta’s quality texture combined with a creamy, cheesy sauce creates a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious.

This recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks, offering room for personalization with various cheeses and add-ins.

Whether you choose the stovetop or baked method, this macaroni and cheese will quickly become a family favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with flavors and share your creations with loved ones.

For more tasty and easy-to-make recipes, explore our collection of Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping or the vibrant Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious.

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