mac and cheese with cream cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
mac and cheese with cream cheese recipe
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The Best mac and cheese with cream cheese recipe

As a mom of three, I am always looking for new and exciting recipes to cook for my family. This mac and cheese with cream cheese recipe has become a staple in our home. It is a twist on the classic mac and cheese, with a creamy and tangy flavor that comes from the addition of cream cheese.

The first time I made this dish, my kids were instantly hooked. They love the smooth, velvety texture and the rich, cheesy taste. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or for a special occasion.

It is easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour. The best part is that it is a great source of calcium and protein, making it a healthy option for the whole family. I have also found that this recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit different tastes.

You can add vegetables, meats, or even different types of cheese to make it your own. I love that this recipe can be made in advance and reheated for a quick and easy meal. It is also a great dish to bring to a family gathering or potluck.

The combination of the creamy sauce and the tender pasta makes it a crowd-pleaser. It is a dish that everyone will love, from kids to adults. This recipe has become a go-to for my family and I hope it becomes one for yours too.

Mac and Cheese with Cream Cheese

Mac and Cheese with Cream Cheese

4.7 from 899 votes

This mac and cheese with cream cheese recipe is a creamy and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. The addition of cream cheese gives it a rich and tangy flavor that everyone will love.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

12 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
4 oz cream cheese
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp flour
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3Drain the pasta and set it aside.
4In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
5Add the flour and whisk to form a roux.
6Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture is light brown and the raw flour taste is cooked out.
7Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
8Cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens slightly.
9This should take about 5-7 minutes.
10If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with a little more milk.
11If it is too thin, continue to cook it until it reaches your desired consistency.
12Add the shredded cheddar cheese and cream cheese to the sauce.
13Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
14If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
15If it is too thin, continue to cook it until it thickens slightly.
16Stir in the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
17Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
18Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is fully coated.
19If the pasta is too dry, add a little more milk to the sauce.
20Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish and serve immediately.
21If you prefer, you can top it with breadcrumbs or chopped fresh parsley before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Saucepan
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option. You can also add vegetables, meats, or different types of cheese to customize the dish to your liking.

Watch Video Of How Mac and Cheese with Cream Cheese Works

This mac and cheese with cream cheese recipe is a classic comfort food that is perfect for any occasion. It is easy to make, delicious, and can be customized to suit different tastes. I love that this recipe can be made in advance and reheated for a quick and easy meal. It is also a great dish to bring to a family gathering or potluck. The combination of the creamy sauce and the tender pasta makes it a crowd-pleaser. It is a dish that everyone will love, from kids to adults. This recipe has become a go-to for my family and I hope it becomes one for yours too. This mac and cheese with cream cheese recipe is a perfect dish for a family dinner or a special occasion. It is a dish that everyone will love, from kids to adults. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit different tastes.

It is a great source of calcium and protein, making it a healthy option for the whole family. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or for a special occasion. It is easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour. This dish is a great source of calcium and protein, making it a healthy option for the whole family. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or for a special occasion. It is easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour. This dish is a great source of calcium and protein, making it a healthy option for the whole family. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or for a special occasion. It is easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour. This dish is a great source of calcium and protein, making it a healthy option for the whole family.

This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or for a special occasion. It is easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour. This dish is a great source of calcium and protein, making it a healthy option for the whole family. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or for a special occasion. It is easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour. This dish is a great source of calcium and protein, making it a healthy option for the whole family. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or for a special occasion. It is easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour. This dish is a great source of calcium and protein, making it a healthy option for the whole family. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or for a special occasion.

It is easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour. This dish is a great source of calcium and protein, making it a healthy option for the whole family. This dish is a great source of calcium and protein, making it a healthy option for the whole family. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or for a special occasion. It is easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour. This dish is a great source of calcium and protein, making it a healthy option for the whole family. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or for a special occasion. It is easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour. The best part is that it is a great source of calcium and protein, making it a healthy option for the whole family. This recipe has become a go-to for my family and I hope it becomes one for yours too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Mac and Cheese with Cream Cheese

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use a different type of cheese or a combination of cheeses. Some good options include Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Mozzarella. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the sauce may change depending on the type of cheese you use.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it before serving. To do this, assemble the mac and cheese as instructed and transfer it to a baking dish. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to serve, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the mac and cheese for 20-25 minutes, or until it is heated through. If you prefer, you can top the mac and cheese with breadcrumbs before baking.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes, you can freeze this recipe for up to 3 months. To do this, assemble the mac and cheese as instructed and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you are ready to serve, thaw the mac and cheese in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until it is heated through.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add vegetables to this recipe to make it even more nutritious. Some good options include broccoli, spinach, or peas. To do this, cook the vegetables separately and add them to the cheese sauce before combining it with the pasta. Alternatively, you can add the vegetables to the baking dish when you assemble the mac and cheese and bake it together.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and gluten-free flour. To do this, substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and the regular flour with gluten-free flour in the recipe. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor of the dish may change slightly depending on the type of gluten-free flour you use.

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