Buttery Mac And Cheese

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Creamy, rich, and indulgent—Buttery Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re serving it up as a cozy side dish or the star of a weeknight dinner, each forkful delivers silky-smooth cheese sauce wrapped around tender elbow pasta. It’s the kind of recipe that feels nostalgic yet gourmet, especially with a generous touch of butter for that velvety finish.

Perfect for holiday spreads, picky eaters, or even midnight cravings, this mac and cheese is all about simplicity done right. No fancy roux or flour here—just real, honest ingredients coming together in one pot for maximum flavor with minimum fuss.

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What Kind of Cheese Should I Use?

For the best Buttery Mac and Cheese, a mix of cheeses adds layers of flavor and creaminess. Sharp cheddar gives it that classic punchy bite, while American cheese ensures a smooth melt. You can experiment with Monterey Jack for extra creaminess or a touch of Gruyere for depth. Whatever you choose, freshly shredded cheese melts better and blends silkier than pre-shredded varieties.

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Ingredients for the Buttery Mac And Cheese

• Elbow Macaroni: The classic shape that holds cheese perfectly in every curve.
• Butter: Adds richness and the signature buttery flavor that makes this dish stand out.
• Milk: Whole milk creates a creamy base for the cheese sauce.
• Heavy Cream: For added silkiness and richness that coats the noodles.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings bold, tangy cheese flavor.
• American Cheese: Gives the sauce its signature smooth and gooey texture.
• Salt and Pepper: A touch of seasoning enhances all the cheesy goodness.

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How To Make the Buttery Mac And Cheese

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Melt the Butter

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. This will create the luscious base for your cheese sauce.

Step 3: Add Milk and Cream

Pour in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly. Warm the mixture gently—don’t let it boil—to avoid curdling.

Step 4: Stir in the Cheese

Lower the heat and slowly add the cheddar and American cheeses in batches, stirring between each addition until melted and smooth. This is where the magic happens.

Step 5: Season It Up

Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. If you like a little kick, a pinch of cayenne or paprika can go a long way.

Step 6: Fold in the Pasta

Return the drained macaroni to the pot and stir gently to coat every piece in that buttery, creamy cheese sauce.

Step 7: Serve Hot

Serve immediately while it’s creamy and warm. Optional: top with a sprinkle of extra cheese or toasted breadcrumbs for a little crunch.

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How to Serve and Store Buttery Mac And Cheese

This creamy mac and cheese is best served straight from the pot while the cheese is velvety and warm. It pairs beautifully with crispy chicken, roasted veggies, or a fresh side salad. For extra flair, sprinkle a little paprika or top it with toasted breadcrumbs just before serving.

Leftovers? No problem. Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to bring back the creaminess. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What pasta shapes can I use instead of elbow macaroni?

You can substitute with shells, cavatappi, or rotini—anything with curves to hold onto the sauce works well.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Be sure to cook it al dente so it holds up in the sauce.

How do I avoid clumpy cheese sauce?

Use freshly shredded cheese and add it gradually over low heat. Stir constantly to ensure smooth melting.

Can I bake this mac and cheese?

Yes! After combining the pasta and sauce, pour it into a baking dish, top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

Is it okay to use pre-shredded cheese?

Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect how well it melts. For the best texture, shred your cheese fresh if possible.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Technically, yes, but the texture may change after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days refrigerated.

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Want More Comfort Food Ideas?

If you love this Buttery Mac and Cheese, you’ll definitely want to try more of these creamy, cheesy favorites from the blog:

• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce — a hearty, meaty pasta twist.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli — full of savory goodness in every bite.
• Skillet Ricotta Pasta with Roasted Broccoli — creamy and veggie-packed.
• Creamy Cheesy Garlic Butter Rigatoni with Savory Beef — rich and satisfying.
• Creamy Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese Delight — a sweet and spicy upgrade to your classic bowl.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s ready whenever the craving hits: Follow me on Pinterest @hallarecipes for more cozy dinner ideas and creamy pasta inspirations.

Let me know how your Buttery Mac and Cheese turns out! Did you try extra spices or a cheese combo of your own? Drop your tips and twists in the comments below—we’re all about sharing the love and the flavor.

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