This mac and cheese is super creamy and cheesy, thanks to the secret ingredient: cream cheese! It’s a cozy dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
I love how easy it is to whip up, and it pairs perfectly with a side of veggies or some crispy bacon. Plus, who can resist a big bowl of cheesy goodness? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Elbow Macaroni: This is the classic pasta choice for mac and cheese. You could also use shells, penne, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just stick with a small shape that holds the cheese well.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: It gives the dish a bold flavor. If you’re looking for something milder, try mild cheddar or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra creaminess. Vegan cheese is another option for a plant-based version!
Cream Cheese: This adds a rich creaminess to the sauce. If you don’t have cream cheese, mascarpone or even Greek yogurt can work in a pinch, although they’ll change the flavor slightly.
Whole Milk: This makes the sauce smooth and creamy. You can use 2% milk or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, but ensure it’s unsweetened for the best taste.
Butter: It helps create the roux for the sauce. You can swap it with olive oil for a healthier alternative, but the flavor will be different.
How Do I Create a Silky Cheese Sauce?
Making a creamy cheese sauce is easy when you follow these steps carefully! The key is the roux, which thickens the sauce and adds depth. Here’s how to master it:
- Start by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Be patient, as high heat can burn the butter.
- Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color. This step is vital for taste!
- Slowly whisk in the milk until combined, and keep whisking as it cooks. This prevents lumps and helps thicken it.
- Watch for the sauce to bubble and thicken, indicating it’s ready for the cream cheese. Stir until it’s smooth and no lumps remain.
- Finally, add your shredded cheese a little at a time, stirring until it melts into the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit more milk to reach your desired consistency!
With these tips, your cheese sauce will be perfectly creamy every time!
Joanna Gaines Mac And Cheese With Cream Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups)
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
For Topping:
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful mac and cheese recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 20-25 minutes to bake. In total, you’ll need around 40-45 minutes to enjoy this creamy goodness, perfect for dinner or a cozy night in!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your mac and cheese will bake perfectly once assembled.
2. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, which should take about 7-8 minutes. Drain the macaroni and set it aside for later.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce Base:
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes. This is your roux, which helps thicken the cheese sauce—make sure to keep stirring to avoid burning!
4. Combine with Milk:
Gradually whisk in the whole milk. Keep whisking as it cooks for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble nicely. This is the base of your creamy cheese sauce!
5. Add the Cream Cheese:
Reduce the heat to medium-low, and now it’s time to add the softened cream cheese. Stir until it’s fully melted and well incorporated into the sauce.
6. Stir in the Cheddar Cheese:
Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until everything is melted together and smooth. Your decadent cheese sauce is almost ready!
7. Season the Sauce:
Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder (if using). Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings if you need more flavor.
8. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce:
Now, fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring gently to make sure all of the pasta is coated in that luscious sauce.
9. Prepare for Baking:
Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a buttered baking dish or divide it into individual ramekins for personal servings.
10. Add the Topping:
If you’d like, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top for an extra golden crust when baked.
11. Bake to Perfection:
Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the top is beautifully golden brown.
12. Cool and Serve:
Once out of the oven, let the mac and cheese cool slightly. If you want, garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.
13. Enjoy Your Meal:
Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, dreamy Joanna Gaines mac and cheese! Perfect for family dinner or any occasion that calls for comfort food.
Can I Use Gluten-Free Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute elbow macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time, as it may vary slightly.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re out of cream cheese, you can use mascarpone for a similar creamy texture, or Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor. Keep in mind it may alter the taste slightly, but it will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftover Mac and Cheese?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Mac and Cheese Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance! Assemble the dish without baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply pop it in the oven and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.