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a spoonful of creamy Mac and cheese being lifted out of casserole

The Coziest Creamy Mac and Cheese (Better Than the Box)

This creamy mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Rich, cheesy, and cozy, made with simple ingredients you already have on hand. A hint of garlic and Dijon mustard enhances the flavor without making it complicated. Perfect for weeknight dinners, fall comfort food cravings, or a holiday side dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni
  • ½ cup butter
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2½ cups half & half
  • 1½ cups whole milk
  • 2-3 cloves of garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp pepper
  • ¼ tsp paprika
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • 4-5 cups shredded cheese sharp cheddar, Gruyere, Colby Jack, Gouda, or mix

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook just until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the roux: In a Dutch oven or large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes, until smooth and lightly golden.
  3. Add liquids: Slowly whisk in half & half and milk. Cook, whisking often, until the sauce thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
  4. Season: Stir in garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika.
    creamy mac and cheese
  5. Add cheeses: Lower heat to medium-low. Stir in cream cheese until melted, then add shredded cheese by the handful until creamy and smooth.
    shredded sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheese for creamy mac and cheese
  6. Combine: Fold in the cooked pasta, stirring until every noodle is coated.
  7. Serve: Enjoy right away for stove-top macaroni and cheese. For a baked version, transfer to a greased baking dish, tip with extra cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake at 375℉ for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
    creamy mac and cheese