Description

There’s something inherently comforting about mac and cheese; it’s a dish that transcends generations and brings a smile to faces young and old alike. Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese features the perfect blend of textures and flavors—the tender spirals of Cellentani or macaroni enveloped in a luscious sauce that sings with the richness of cheeses, enhanced by aromatic spices that awaken the palate.

Originating in the cuisine of England, this dish has been adopted and adapted by various cultures, evolving over time to produce numerous variations. Our version combines the delightful sharpness of cheddar, the creaminess of Velveeta, and the subtle richness of Monterey Jack to create a baked mac and cheese that is as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether it's for a family dinner, a potluck, or simply a craving for comfort food, this dish will fill your kitchen with heartwarming aromas and your dining table with joy.

What makes our recipe special is its creamy texture and the delightful golden crust formed during baking, which adds an appealing contrast to the soft noodles below. The preparation is straightforward, making it a perfect choice for novice cooks, while the depth of flavor will impress even the most experienced chefs. Set aside any notions of the boxed versions you may have encountered; this homemade delight promises a memorable experience in every bite.

Ingredients

• For the Noodles:
• 16 oz Cellentani or macaroni noodles
• For the Cheese Sauce:
• 1 stick salted butter, softened and cubed
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 4 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
• 12 oz evaporated milk
• 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• Substitutions & Variations:
• Feel free to switch up the types of cheese according to your preference. For a tangier flavor, substitute the sharp cheddar with pepper jack or gouda. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a sprinkle of crumbled feta for an unexpected twist.
• You can also make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta varieties. For a healthier spin, consider incorporating steamed vegetables such as broccoli or spinach into the mix before baking. Additionally, for a gourmet touch, adding truffle oil or breadcrumbs with herbs on top can elevate the dish to new heights.

Preparation Method

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While your oven warms up, fill a large saucepan with water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add your Cellentani or macaroni noodles, stirring occasionally to ensure they don’t stick together. Cook them until tender, which typically takes around 7 to 9 minutes. Once they are ready, drain the noodles in a colander, but do not rinse them; you want to keep a bit of the starch on them to help the sauce adhere wonderfully.

While the noodles are cooking, it’s time to prepare your decadent cheese blend. Start by shredding the sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. A box grater or a food processor can make this task quick and easy. After shredding, set them aside, ensuring that you have extra for the topping.

Now, let’s melt the creamy cheese sauce. Pour the evaporated milk into a small saucepan set over medium heat. This milk is thicker than regular milk and will provide a luxurious body to your sauce. As the milk warms, add the cubed Velveeta cheese. Keep stirring gently until the Velveeta completely melts into the evaporated milk, creating a smooth and creamy texture. It’s essential to maintain a low heat to prevent curdling or burning.

Once your noodles are cooked and drained, transfer them to a greased 9x13 inch oven-safe dish, spreading them out evenly. Take your warm Velveeta and evaporated milk mixture and pour it over the noodles. Before stirring everything together, add in the butter, sour cream, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. The warmth from the noodles will gently melt the butter, making it easy to mix in. Stir until everything is evenly combined.

Next, it’s time to add half of the shredded Monterey Jack and sharp cheddar cheeses into the noodles. Gently fold them in, making sure that each noodle is coated in the cheesy goodness. Then, pour in your cheese sauce, continuing to stir until every inch of your pasta is enveloped in that creamy, dreamy sauce.

The last step before baking is to sprinkle the remaining shredded cheeses over the top of your mac and cheese. This will create a deliciously gooey crust as it bakes, giving you that glorious cheese pull when you serve it. Once assembled, place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and bubbling with cheesy goodness. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to ensure it doesn’t over-brown.

Tips and Conclusion

To enhance your baked mac and cheese even further, consider adding a crispy topping. Mix a cup of panko breadcrumbs with a tablespoon of melted butter and some Italian seasoning. Spread this mixture on top of the cheese after you remove it from the oven and bake it an additional 5 minutes until golden. This adds an alluring crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta beneath.

Should you have leftovers (which can be rare with this dish), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making reheated portions almost as delightful as the first serving. When reheating, a dash of milk can bring back that creamy texture. Just warm it up in the microwave or oven, and enjoy.
Preparing this Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese not only fills bellies but fills hearts with warmth and nostalgia. Each step allows the delightful aromas of garlic, onion, and melting cheese to waft through your kitchen, creating an atmospheric backdrop for what is sure to become a beloved recipe in your household.

As you take that first comforting bite, the creamy noodles embrace the rich, cheesy sauce, and you will surely understand why this dish is a classic favorite. Pair your mac and cheese with a light salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

If you enjoyed this recipe, why not explore more of our comforting classics? Consider diving into our recipes for creamy risottos, savory casseroles, or even a hearty soup for colder days. And don’t forget to share your culinary adventures with friends and family—they will appreciate the flavors and may want to join in on the cooking journey! Happy cooking and enjoy every cheesy moment!