Creamy Mac and Cheese

Ultra decadent Creamy Mac and Cheese that is perfect for holidays, romantic dinners or family meals. This is one of my family's favorite comfort food dinners.

Course Dinner, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Keyword Mac and Cheese, Mac n Cheese, Macaroni and Cheese

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 15

Servings servings

Calories 492kcal

Author Heather

Ingredients

16 ounces macaroni noodles
5 tablespoons unsalted butter
5 tablespoons all purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
4 cups whole milk
2 1/2 cups soft mozzarella *torn into pieces
2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese *grated, (I use Kerrygold cheese)

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Instructions

Bring large pot of water to boil. Salt the water well and cook the pasta to al dente, following the instructions on the package. See Note #1 below.
Meanwhile, gather all ingredients while water in coming to a boil.
In a large skillet melt butter over medium heat. Once melted add spices to butter and stir well.
Sprinkle in flour and whisk to combine. Cook for approximately 1-2 minutes whisking frequently. The flour should become bubbly, almost foamy.
Slowing pour in a small amount of milk while stirring constantly until the mixture becomes paste like.
Continue slowly adding in the milk a little at a time while stirring constantly until all the milk has been added. Cook stirring often until mixture become thickened and smooth, about 7-8 minutes.
Take off heat and stir in cheese.
Once cheese has melted add in al dente pasta and stir well.

Notes

Recipe Notes

Note #1- While waiting for the water to boil grate the cheese, tear the soft mozzarella and measure all other ingredients. Cooking the pasta and preparing the cheese sauce will take approximately the same amount of time. I will usually begin melting the butter, add the salt and pasta to the boiling water and then return to making the cheese sauce.

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