Creamy Baked Mac & Cheese

Ingredients

°3 c elbow macaroni (uncooked)

°1 c whole milk

°1 c heavy cream

°2 eggs

°2 c sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)

°4 oz American Cheese (More of you want your macaroni and cheese to be even creamier)

°1 teaspoon garlic powder

°1 tsp onion powder

°½ tsp each, salt and pepper (to taste)

°½ tsp cayenne pepper

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and grease or spray your 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

Cook the elbow macaroni pasta according to the box instructions, but remove the pasta 2 minutes earlier than the recommended cooking time (for an al dente texture).

Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water. Put aside.

May be an image of shepherd’s pie

In bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. Then add the milk and heavy cream, mix.

Add the cheeses, reserving 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese for garnish and seasoning (garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper & cayenne pepper) as well as cooked pasta. Stir to combine.

Transfer to your baking dish and top with 1 cup reserved sharp cheddar cheese.

Baking uncovered in the center your oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 40 minutes.

Allow baked macaroni and cheese to cool for 10-15 minutes before serving. * Macaroni and cheese may seem unsteady, but take shape as it cools.

May be an image of shepherd’s pie

Enjoy !

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use a different type of pasta if you prefer.

While elbow macaroni is traditional for mac and cheese, other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells work well too.

Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the new pasta’s package instructions.

Is it necessary to use both sharp cheddar and American cheese?

No, you can customize the cheese blend to your preference. Using both sharp cheddar and American cheese provides a rich and creamy texture, but you can experiment with different cheese combinations like Gruyère, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.

How can I make this mac and cheese spicier?

If you prefer a spicier mac and cheese, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture.

Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Can I make this dish in advance and reheat it?

Yes, you can make this mac and cheese in advance and reheat it.

Cover it with aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator.

When ready to serve, reheat it in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F or 120°C) until heated through.

You might need to add a little extra milk or cream to maintain the creaminess.

Can I freeze this mac and cheese?

While mac and cheese can be frozen, it’s best to freeze it before baking. Prepare the dish but do not bake it.

Cover it well and store it in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator and bake it as directed in the recipe.

Freezing baked mac and cheese can sometimes result in a change in texture.

What can I serve as a side dish with mac and cheese?

Mac and cheese pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, coleslaw, or a slice of garlic bread.

You can also add cooked bacon bits or breadcrumbs as a crunchy topping.