Easy Creamy Mac ‘N Cheese Recipe
This Easy Creamy Mac ‘N Cheese is a comforting and classic pasta dish featuring tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce made with cheddar and Country Crock® Original Spread. Perfect for a quick family meal, it combines smooth textures and hearty flavors in just a few simple steps.
- Author: Kai
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup Country Crock® Original Spread
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Cook Pasta: In a large pot, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions, usually boiling in salted water until tender but still firm to bite (al dente).
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: While the pasta cooks, whisk together the milk, Country Crock® Original Spread, and all-purpose flour in a large saucepan. Place over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, whisking frequently to prevent lumps.
- Thicken Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low and cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, approximately 5 minutes. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Remove the saucepan from heat.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Drain the cooked pasta thoroughly, then return it to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and toss well to combine, ensuring every piece of macaroni is coated with creamy cheese sauce.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of black pepper or paprika to the cheese sauce.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more intense flavor.
- If the sauce becomes too thick after standing, stir in a splash of milk to loosen it.
- This dish can be customized by adding cooked bacon bits or steamed vegetables.
- To keep the mac and cheese creamy when reheating, add a little milk and stir gently over low heat.
Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, cheddar cheese pasta, easy pasta dinner, comfort food