This Mac and Cheese is a creamy twist on the classic dish, featuring smooth cream cheese for extra richness. It’s a warm, comforting meal that kids and adults love alike!
Honestly, who can resist cheesy pasta? I like to add a sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy finish. Give it a try and see the smiles it brings! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Macaroni: Elbow macaroni is standard, but you can switch it up! Try cavatappi or shells for fun shapes and textures. If gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta to enjoy this dish without worry.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds nice flavor, but if you’re dairy-free, go for vegan butter or olive oil. You won’t miss the richness!
Cream Cheese: This is a big flavor booster! If you don’t have cream cheese, some thick Greek yogurt can work in a pinch. Just make sure it’s not flavored.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its flavor. However, you can use medium cheddar or a mix of mozzarella and Monterey Jack if you prefer milder cheese. For an extra kick, pepper jack is fun too!
Milk: Whole milk gives the creamiest results, but 2% or oat milk works too if you’re looking to lighten things up or avoid dairy.
How Do I Make a Creamy Cheese Sauce?
Creating a velvety cheese sauce can seem tricky, but it’s all about the roux and careful melting! Here’s how to nail it.
- Start by melting your butter in a pan over medium heat. Once it’s melted, sprinkle in the flour. Stir it for a minute or two, until it’s bubbly, to cook off the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add warmed milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until it gets thick enough to coat the back of a spoon, like a nice gravy.
- After removing it from heat, stir in cream cheese. This is where the magic happens! Mix until it’s completely smooth before adding shredded cheddar and spices.
Patience is key! Take your time with the cheese melting phase, so everything blends smoothly and beautifully. Enjoy your mac and cheese!
Joanna Gaines Mac And Cheese With Cream Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Macaroni:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (about 3 cups)
For The Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk, warmed
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for extra sharpness)
For Garnish:
- Optional: chopped parsley
- Optional: breadcrumbs for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful mac and cheese recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and around 25-30 minutes to cook. Just about an hour from start to finish, and you’ll have a creamy, cheesy dish that’s sure to be a hit!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). If you have a large baking dish or an oven-safe skillet, make sure to butter or spray it for easy serving later.
2. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions (usually about 7-8 minutes) until it’s al dente. Then, drain the pasta and set it aside to cool a bit.
3. Make the Roux:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s completely melted, whisk in the flour. Keep stirring for about 1-2 minutes until it’s bubbly and slightly golden. This creates a roux that will thicken our cheese sauce!
4. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, making sure no lumps form. Keep whisking until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Then, take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the cream cheese until everything is nicely blended and smooth.
5. Add the Cheese and Seasoning:
Now, it’s time for the cheese magic! Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. If you like it extra cheesy, feel free to add in the Parmesan cheese!
6. Combine with Macaroni:
Gently fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until everything is well combined. You should see that creamy goodness coating every piece of pasta!
7. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer that delicious mac and cheese mixture into your prepared baking dish or skillet. If you love a crunchy top, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the surface.
8. Bake Away:
Pop it in the oven and bake uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. Your kitchen is going to smell divine!
9. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes. If you like, throw on some chopped parsley for a pop of color before serving.
10. Enjoy:
Serve this warm and enjoy every creamy bite of your Joanna Gaines-style mac and cheese. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or just a cozy night in!
This recipe yields a rich and creamy dish with the luscious addition of cream cheese, creating a smooth texture and full flavor reminiscent of Joanna Gaines’ comforting farmhouse-style cooking. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. A mix of mozzarella and Monterey Jack creates a milder flavor, or add pepper jack for a little heat!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat it slowly on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to revive the creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to a day in advance! Assemble everything in your baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
For an extra flavor boost, consider mixing in cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even some roasted broccoli before baking. You can also top it with some crispy bacon crumbles for a delicious crunch!
