We absolutely love diving into a bowl of creamy macaroni and cheese, and our Creamette Macaroni Cheese Recipe brings that classic comfort to your table with a twist. As a timeless favorite in American kitchens, it’s the perfect blend of gooey cheddar and tender pasta that satisfies on busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
What makes this dish stand out is Creamette’s reliable pasta, which ensures every bite is just right. We’ll show you how to whip up this crowd-pleaser that’s as easy as it is delicious, keeping family traditions alive with our simple spin.
Ingredients
In our Creamette Macaroni Cheese Recipe, we gather high-quality ingredients that deliver that irresistible gooey texture and rich flavor everyone loves. Below, we list them in the order they’ll be used, with precise measurements and any necessary prep notes for flawless results.
- Creamette Macaroni: 8 ounces (dry), uncooked—opt for this brand for its perfect al dente texture that holds up beautifully in the bake.
- Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons, softened—use this for sautéing to build a smooth base without overwhelming saltiness.
- All-Purpose Flour: ¼ cup—this acts as the thickening agent, so ensure it’s sifted for lump-free results.
- Whole Milk: 2 cups, at room temperature—warmed slightly for even blending and a creamier sauce.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded—freshly grate for maximum meltability and that signature tangy punch.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste—adjust based on cheese saltiness to enhance flavors without overpowering.
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, freshly ground—adds a subtle kick; grind just before use for the best aroma.
- Ground Mustard: ½ teaspoon—this optional enhancer boosts the cheese’s sharpness; mix it in for a nuanced twist.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: ½ cup, for topping—lightly toasted if desired, to create a crispy golden crust on the final dish.
Equipment Needed
With our carefully selected ingredients in hand, we now turn to the essential tools that make preparing our Creamette Macaroni Cheese a seamless and enjoyable process. Having the right equipment ensures even cooking, perfect texture, and that signature gooey cheese pull we all crave in this classic comfort dish.
To achieve flawless results, we recommend gathering the following equipment, listed in the order they’ll be used during preparation:
- Large Stock Pot: For boiling the Creamette macaroni to al dente perfection; choose one with a capacity of at least 4 quarts to prevent overflow and ensure even heating.
- Colander: Essential for draining the cooked pasta quickly and efficiently, helping maintain its tender texture without excess water that could dilute the cheese sauce.
- Medium Saucepan: Used for creating the creamy roux and cheese sauce; opt for a heavy-bottomed one to avoid scorching the milk and butter mixture.
- Whisk: A sturdy wire whisk for smoothly blending the flour, butter, and milk, ensuring a lump-free sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate for measuring ingredients like milk, flour, and spices; we suggest a set with both dry and liquid options for precision in our recipe.
- Grater: If your sharp cheddar cheese isn’t pre-shredded, this tool is key for quickly grating it to the ideal consistency for melting.
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Perfect for baking the assembled macaroni cheese to a golden, bubbly finish; glass or ceramic works best for even heat distribution.
- Oven Mitts: Safety first—we rely on these to handle hot dishes without risk, ensuring you can serve up our Creamette Macaroni Cheese with confidence.
By preparing these tools ahead of time, we guarantee that every step from boiling to baking flows smoothly, elevating our homemade version of this timeless favorite.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to craft our creamy Creamette Macaroni Cheese. Each step ensures a perfectly balanced, gooey delight that will become a family favorite.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we start cooking, let’s organize our ingredients for efficiency. Begin by grating 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese into a bowl to achieve that melty texture we crave. Measure out 1/4 cup of unsalted butter and 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour for the roux base. Pour 2 cups of whole milk into a measuring cup and set aside, along with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground mustard for seasoning. Finally, prepare 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs for the crispy topping. This preparation allows for smooth transitions and prevents any last-minute rushes.
Cook the Pasta
We bring a large stock pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat, then add 8 ounces of Creamette macaroni and stir occasionally to avoid sticking. Cook for 7 to 9 minutes until the pasta reaches al dente—tender yet firm to the bite, with a satisfying chew that promises to hold the rich sauce beautifully. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process, ensuring it stays perfectly textured for our dish.
Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, we melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter and whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to form a smooth roux, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes until it turns golden and fragrant. Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer until it thickens to a velvety consistency that coats the back of a spoon. Stir in 2 cups of grated sharp cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground mustard until the cheese melts completely, creating a luscious, gooey sauce that exudes a warm, cheesy aroma and irresistible creaminess.
Combine and Bake
We transfer the cooked Creamette macaroni into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the hot cheese sauce over it, stirring gently to coat every noodle evenly for a uniform, indulgent blend. Sprinkle 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs on top for a golden, crunchy crust that contrasts the creamy interior. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is bubbly and browned, releasing an enticing scent that signals a comforting, homemade masterpiece ready to serve.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Creamette Macaroni Cheese even more convenient for busy schedules, we can prepare components in advance without compromising that irresistible gooey texture and rich, comforting flavor. This approach lets us streamline the process, ensuring a golden, bubbly bake whenever we need it.
Prepping Ingredients Ahead
We recommend starting by preparing key ingredients up to 24 hours in advance. This keeps everything fresh and ready for assembly:
- Grate the cheese: Shred 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its creamy melt.
- Measure dry components: Combine 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ½ teaspoon ground mustard in a small bowl or sealed bag for quick access.
- Prepare the roux base: Melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter and whisk in 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour to form a roux, then cool and store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 1 day.
Cooking Pasta in Advance
Boil the Creamette macaroni ahead to save time, as it holds up well when stored properly:
- Cook 8 ounces of Creamette macaroni to al dente as per the main instructions, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- Toss the pasta with a light drizzle of oil to prevent sticking, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
Making the Cheese Sauce Ahead
Our velvety cheese sauce can be prepared fully in advance for effortless reheating:
- Follow the sauce steps from the main recipe by creating the roux, adding 2 cups whole milk, and stirring in the grated cheese until smooth.
- Let the sauce cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. For best results, stir occasionally before use to avoid separation.
Assembling and Storing the Dish
For ultimate convenience, we can partially assemble the entire dish:
- Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, but hold off on adding the panko breadcrumb topping until baking day to keep it crisp.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. If freezing, wrap securely and store for up to 1 month—simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Reheating and Baking Tips
- Remove the assembled dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to ensure even baking.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F, add the panko topping, and bake as directed in the main recipe, adding 5-10 minutes to the bake time if needed.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Up to 24 hours for assembled dish; up to 2 days for sauce | Keep airtight to prevent drying; reheat sauce gently on the stove with a splash of milk. |
| Freezing | Up to 1 month for fully assembled dish | Thaw completely in the fridge; avoid repeated freezing to maintain texture. |
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Creamette Macaroni Cheese recipe as it’s more than just a dish—it’s a timeless favorite that brings warmth to any table
It’s perfect for creating family moments and experimenting with your own twists
We’re sure you’ll find it becomes a go-to comfort food in your home too
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Creamette Macaroni Cheese Recipe?
This classic comfort food combines tender Creamette macaroni with a gooey cheddar cheese sauce, making it perfect for family meals. It’s an easy, reliable dish for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends, offering a simple twist on tradition with high-quality ingredients for rich flavor and texture.
What ingredients are needed for Creamette Macaroni Cheese?
You’ll need Creamette macaroni, unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, whole milk, sharp cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, ground mustard, and panko breadcrumbs. Precise measurements ensure a creamy, irresistible result—grate the cheese fresh for the best melt.
What equipment is required for the recipe?
Essential tools include a large stock pot for boiling pasta, a colander for draining, a medium saucepan for the cheese sauce, a whisk for blending, measuring cups and spoons, a grater, a 9×13-inch baking dish, and oven mitts. These items help achieve even cooking and that perfect gooey cheese pull.
How do I make Creamette Macaroni Cheese?
First, cook macaroni to al dente. Make a roux with butter and flour, add milk and cheese for a smooth sauce, then mix with pasta. Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with panko, and bake until bubbly and golden. Prep takes about 15 minutes, with 30 minutes baking time for a homemade masterpiece.
Can I make Creamette Macaroni Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, prepare ingredients like grating cheese or making the roux up to 24 hours in advance. Cook pasta and sauce separately, then assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for a month. When ready, bake from chilled or thawed for that fresh-baked gooey texture.
How should I store and reheat the dish?
Store assembled but unbaked dish in the fridge for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to a month. To reheat, bake from refrigerated at 350°F for 25-30 minutes or from frozen at 375°F for 45-50 minutes until hot and bubbly. Cover with foil if it browns too quickly for even warming.