Name: Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound cavatappi shells; ¼ cup unsalted butter; 1 cup milk, any kind (I used 2%); 1¼ cups heavy whipping cream; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup all-purpose flour; ¾ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper

There’s just nothing like the comforting embrace of a homemade Creamy Mac and Cheese. With luxuriously velvety sauce, tender cavatappi noodles, and a cozy blend of cheddar and mozzarella, this dish manages to deliver a familiar, deeply satisfying flavor with an extra touch of elegance. Whether you’re sharing it at a family get-together or making a batch just for yourself, each bite promises pure comfort and nostalgia. You’ll soon see why Creamy Mac and Cheese is a dinner table classic.

Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Mac and Cheese lies in its simplicity: each ingredient plays an important role in building flavor and texture. These humble staples create a dish that’s remarkably decadent yet easy enough for any weeknight. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few thoughts to make every bite just right.

1 pound cavatappi shells: Their shape is perfect for holding onto the rich, creamy sauce.
¼ cup unsalted butter: Provides an indulgent base for your sauce, letting you control the salt level.
¼ cup all-purpose flour: This is your sauce thickener; make sure it blends smoothly with the butter.
¾ teaspoon salt: Just enough to bring out the intricate layers of flavor.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds warmth and balances the cheese’s richness without overpowering.
1 cup milk (any kind): If using whole or 2%, you’ll get a fuller, silkier sauce.
1¼ cups heavy whipping cream: The secret to achieving that ultra-smooth, decadent texture.
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Essential for flavor—don’t skimp on the sharpness!
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings a delightful melt and a little stretch for that classic mac and cheese pull.

How to Make Creamy Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Grab a large pot, fill it with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil. Toss in your cavatappi and cook until just al dente, following the package directions—don’t let them overcook, as they’ll soften a bit more in the sauce. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside while you move on to the best part: the creamy, dreamy cheese sauce.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a separate medium pot, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. When it’s beautifully melted, quickly whisk in the flour, salt, and black pepper. This mixture, called a roux, is the foundation of your bechamel—cooking it for just a minute or two ensures any floury taste dissipates, while the spices mingle ever so slightly into the butter.

Step 3: Whisk in Dairy

Now it’s time for dairy magic! Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to keep lumps at bay. Let the mixture warm gently, stirring as it begins to bubble and thicken. You’re looking for a slightly glossy sauce that coats the back of a spoon—a promise that your Creamy Mac and Cheese is about to reach new levels of lusciousness.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses

Reduce the heat to low and sprinkle in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella. Stir patiently until both cheeses have melted into a unified, silken sauce with no streaks remaining. If you’re tempted to sneak a taste, I won’t blame you—it smells irresistible at this stage.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Add your cooked cavatappi right into that glorious cheese sauce, folding everything together until every nook and cranny is coated. If the sauce seems a little thick, add in a tablespoon or two of milk until it reaches your ideal creaminess. Let the macaroni and cheese rest for about five minutes—the sauce will thicken even more for that quintessential Creamy Mac and Cheese texture.

How to Serve Creamy Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

Garnishing your Creamy Mac and Cheese is an easy way to add pop and freshness. Sprinkle on some chopped fresh parsley or chives for color, or dust with a little extra black pepper or smoked paprika for an inviting aroma and subtle kick.

Side Dishes

Round out your meal with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness, or serve alongside roasted broccoli, garlic bread, or even crispy chicken cutlets for hearty comfort. Kids and adults alike will find their perfect pairing!

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the traditional bowl—spoon Creamy Mac and Cheese into ramekins for an individual touch, bake under a broiler with a cheesy breadcrumb crust, or serve as a filling side in your favorite BBQ spread. Add mix-ins like cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted tomatoes to make it all your own.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool it to room temperature before sealing it up to preserve the texture and keep the sauce nice and creamy.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze portions, let the mac and cheese cool entirely first. Place individual servings in freezer-safe containers; it can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to help maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency.

Reheating

Gently reheat Creamy Mac and Cheese on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream and stirring frequently. This little trick revives the sauce and brings back that signature creaminess even after it’s been stashed away.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While cavatappi is my favorite for this Creamy Mac and Cheese because of its twisty shape, elbow macaroni, shells, or even penne work wonderfully and soak up the sauce beautifully.

Which cheeses melt best for mac and cheese?

Sharp cheddar and mozzarella create that dreamy texture and flavor, but you can experiment with gouda, Monterey Jack, or fontina for a twist. Just be sure to use real blocks of cheese and shred them yourself for the smoothest melt.

How do I prevent my cheese sauce from getting grainy?

The key is gentle heat and patience—whisk your roux until smooth, add milk slowly, and lower the heat when adding cheese so it melts without separating. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents that can hinder a creamy finish.

Can this be baked as a casserole?

Yes! Transfer your finished Creamy Mac and Cheese to a greased dish, top with more cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F for about 20 minutes until the top is bubbling and golden-brown.

What can I add if I want to spice things up?

A sprinkle of garlic powder, paprika, or a pinch of cayenne can give your mac and cheese an exciting kick. Stir these right into the roux before adding the milk for even distribution.

Final Thoughts

This is one of those dishes you’ll find yourself craving again and again—because no matter your age or the season, Creamy Mac and Cheese is soul-satisfying comfort in a bowl. I hope you’ll give it a try soon and make it your own family favorite!