Description
This creamy smoked cheddar macaroni is the ultimate comfort food, featuring a rich, smoky cheese flavor and a velvety texture that will wow your guests at any gathering. Perfect as a side dish or a main attraction!
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni – 8 oz
- Smoked cheddar cheese – 2 cups, shredded
- Sharp cheddar cheese – 1 cup, shredded
- Butter – 2 tbsp
- All-purpose flour – 2 tbsp
- Milk – 1 ½ cups
- Heavy cream – 1 cup
- Garlic powder – 1 tsp
- Onion powder – 1 tsp
- Ground mustard – ½ tsp
- Salt – 1 tsp
- Black pepper – ½ tsp
- Paprika (optional, for garnish) – 1 tsp
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish) – 1 tbsp, chopped
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions (about 8-10 minutes), until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a separate large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Avoid browning.
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Add the Dairy: Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
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Incorporate the Spices: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, salt, and pepper to the sauce.
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Melt the Cheese: Gradually add the shredded smoked cheddar and sharp cheddar, stirring until fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
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Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
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Serve and Garnish: Transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with paprika and chopped parsley for extra flavor and color.
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Optional – Bake for Extra Crispiness: For a baked version, transfer to a greased baking dish. Top with more smoked cheddar and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes
- Different Cheeses: Add Gruyère, gouda, or blue cheese for different flavors.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit meat and add sautéed spinach, broccoli, or roasted cauliflower.
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and pasta.
- Add Protein: Stir in cooked bacon, rotisserie chicken, or sausage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: main dish, side dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Creamy Mac and Cheese, Smoked Cheddar Macaroni, Comfort Food, Mac and Cheese Recipe, Cheesy Pasta Dish