We’ve always cherished the timeless comfort of mac and cheese, and our Creamette Mac and Cheese recipe elevates it with creamy goodness and that signature pasta bite. As a beloved American classic, it’s perfect for quick weeknight meals or family gatherings, drawing from simple traditions that warm the soul.
We’ll guide you through this easy-to-make version using Creamette pasta, ensuring a dish that’s cheesy, satisfying and full of flavor. Whether you’re a home cook or a pro, it’s a staple you’ll return to time and again.
Ingredients
To craft our creamy and irresistible Creamette Mac and Cheese, we start with high-quality ingredients that deliver that signature comforting texture and flavor. Below, we list them in the order they are used, with precise measurements and any necessary prep notes for accuracy.
- Creamette elbow macaroni: 8 ounces (dry), uncooked – This is our star pasta, providing the perfect base for the dish; boil it al dente for the best results.
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons, softened – Use this first to create a smooth roux; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy melting.
- All-purpose flour: 2 tablespoons – Added right after the butter to thicken the sauce; sift it if lumpy for a silky consistency.
- Whole milk: 2 cups – We recommend whole milk for its richness; heat it gently to avoid curdling when incorporated.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: 2 cups, freshly shredded – Grate your own for superior melt; this provides the bold, cheesy flavor that makes the dish unforgettable.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon – Season to taste; add it during the sauce stage to enhance the overall savoriness.
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground – Stir this in for a subtle kick; freshly ground ensures maximum aroma.
- Ground mustard: ¼ teaspoon – This secret ingredient boosts the cheese’s tanginess; mix it into the sauce for depth without overpowering.
- Optional add-ins: ½ cup of cooked bacon or ham, diced – If you’re customizing, incorporate this last for added protein and smokiness.
Tools and Equipment
To bring our Creamette Mac and Cheese recipe to life with ease and precision, we rely on a few essential tools and equipment. These items ensure smooth preparation and help achieve that perfect creamy texture and golden finish.
- Large Pot: We use a large pot (at least 4 quarts) to boil the Creamette elbow macaroni, allowing plenty of room for the pasta to cook evenly without sticking or boiling over.
- Colander: A sturdy colander is key for draining the cooked pasta quickly, preventing excess water from diluting the cheese sauce and maintaining the dish’s signature creaminess.
- Medium Saucepan: For creating the rich cheese sauce, we recommend a medium saucepan (about 2-3 quarts) to melt butter, whisk in flour, and incorporate milk and cheese smoothly.
- Whisk: A wire whisk helps us blend the roux and sauce ingredients seamlessly, avoiding lumps and ensuring a velvety consistency in our Creamette Mac and Cheese.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial, so we always have a set of dry and liquid measuring cups along with measuring spoons on hand for ingredients like milk, flour, and seasonings.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: We opt for a heat-resistant wooden spoon or silicone spatula to stir the sauce gently, preventing scorching and making it easy to combine everything.
- Cheese Grater: If shredding cheese fresh, a box grater or food processor allows us to prepare the sharp cheddar quickly and efficiently for maximum meltability.
- Oven (if baking): For a baked version of our Creamette Mac and Cheese, we need a preheated oven at 350°F and a 9×13-inch baking dish to achieve that irresistible crispy top.
With these tools ready, we’re set to move forward and craft a comforting dish that highlights the best of Creamette pasta.
Directions
Now that we have our ingredients and tools lined up, let’s create our creamy Creamette Mac and Cheese with straightforward steps that deliver a rich, comforting dish every time. We’ll break it down for perfect results.
Prep
Before we start cooking, we’ll prepare our Creamette elbow macaroni and other essentials to ensure everything comes together smoothly. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat—aim for about 4 quarts of water with 1 tablespoon of salt for optimal flavor infusion. Add the 8 ounces of Creamette elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, typically 7-9 minutes, until al dente with a slight bite that holds up in the sauce. While the pasta cooks, measure out 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 2 cups of whole milk, and 2 cups of freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese to keep things organized and ready. Once the pasta is done, drain it in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process, preserving its signature texture.
Cook
With our pasta prepped, we’ll now cook the luscious cheese sauce that makes this Creamette Mac and Cheese irresistible. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it’s fragrant and bubbling, about 1-2 minutes. Whisk in the 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to form a smooth roux, stirring constantly for 1 minute to eliminate any lumps and develop a nutty aroma. Gradually pour in the 2 cups of whole milk while continuing to whisk, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens to a velvety consistency that coats the back of a spoon. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the 2 cups of freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese along with ½ teaspoon of salt, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of ground mustard for a tangy kick. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely into a glossy, golden sauce that promises to envelop the pasta in creamy goodness.
Assemble
Finally, we’ll assemble our Creamette Mac and Cheese to achieve that ultimate comforting blend. In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained Creamette elbow macaroni with the hot cheese sauce, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly for a uniform, cheesy embrace. For added flavor, fold in optional mix-ins like ½ cup of cooked bacon or ham if desired. If you’re opting for a baked version, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, sprinkle an extra ½ cup of shredded cheese on top for a crispy, bubbling crust, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and the dish is piping hot. Serve immediately to enjoy the meltingly tender pasta and bold flavors at their peak.
Make-Ahead and Storage
To maximize the convenience of our Creamette Mac and Cheese recipe, we often prepare it in advance or store leftovers for later enjoyment. This ensures you can savor its creamy, cheesy goodness whenever the craving hits, without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Making Ahead
Preparing our Creamette Mac and Cheese ahead of time allows for effortless meals during busy weeks. Follow these simple steps to get ahead:
- Cook the pasta partially: Boil the Creamette elbow macaroni for 2 minutes less than the al dente time specified on the package. This prevents it from becoming mushy when reheated.
- Prepare the cheese sauce: Make the sauce as directed in the recipe, but let it cool completely before combining with the pasta.
- Assemble and chill: Mix the undercooked pasta with the cooled cheese sauce in a baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. This step locks in the rich, velvety creaminess, making it easy to bake fresh when needed.
- Bake from chilled: When ready, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the assembled dish for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
Storage Tips
Proper storage helps maintain the comforting, gooey texture of our Creamette Mac and Cheese while keeping it safe to eat. We advise these methods based on standard food safety guidelines:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, stirring occasionally to preserve the signature creamy consistency.
- Freezing: For longer storage, portion the mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers or bags. It freezes well for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to avoid separating the sauce and ensure the pasta retains its tender bite.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 3-4 days | Use airtight containers to prevent drying out. |
| Freezing | 2-3 months | Cool completely before freezing to maintain texture. |
Always check for signs of spoilage before consuming, and reheat thoroughly to 165°F (74°C) for food safety. This way, our Creamette Mac and Cheese stays as irresistible as the day you made it.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted this Creamette Mac and Cheese as a go-to favorite that brings comfort to any meal. It’s versatile for busy days or gatherings and highlights the joy of simple ingredients.
Trust us it’s a recipe we’ll return to time and again for its creamy delight. Give it a try and make it part of your kitchen routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed for Creamette Mac and Cheese?
You’ll need 8 ounces of Creamette elbow macaroni, 2 tablespoons each of unsalted butter and all-purpose flour, 2 cups of whole milk, 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and ground mustard. Optional add-ins include bacon or ham for extra flavor. These high-quality ingredients ensure a creamy, satisfying dish.
How do I prepare Creamette Mac and Cheese?
Boil 8 ounces of Creamette elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, then drain. Make a roux with 2 tablespoons butter and flour, add 2 cups milk gradually, and stir in 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese with seasonings. Mix the sauce with pasta, and bake if desired for a crispy top. Total time is about 30 minutes.
Can I customize the Creamette Mac and Cheese recipe?
Yes, add cooked bacon, ham, or vegetables like broccoli for variety. Experiment with cheeses or spices, but keep the base ingredients for the best texture. This flexibility makes it ideal for family preferences while maintaining the creamy goodness of Creamette pasta.
What tools are required to make this recipe?
You’ll need a large pot for boiling pasta, a colander for draining, a medium saucepan for the cheese sauce, and a whisk for mixing. Accurate measuring cups, a heat-resistant spoon, and optionally a baking dish for the oven version ensure smooth preparation.
Is Creamette Mac and Cheese suitable for beginners?
Absolutely, it’s an easy recipe with simple steps and common ingredients. Novice cooks can follow the straightforward instructions for boiling pasta and making a basic cheese sauce, resulting in a comforting meal without advanced skills.
How can I store Creamette Mac and Cheese?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months. Reheat thoroughly in the oven or microwave to maintain creaminess. For make-ahead, partially cook pasta and prepare sauce separately, then assemble when ready.
How long does it take to make Creamette Mac and Cheese?
Preparation takes about 10 minutes, with cooking around 20 minutes, for a total of 30 minutes. It’s perfect for quick weeknight meals, offering comforting results with minimal effort.