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Creamy Bulk Macaroni and Cheese

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A quick, easy, and budget-friendly macaroni and cheese recipe that serves 8-10 people with a rich, creamy texture and homemade flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) elbow macaroni
  • 6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter
  • 6 tablespoons (45 g) all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups (960 ml) warm whole milk
  • 4 ounces (115 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 4 cups (16 ounces/450 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup (90 g) panko breadcrumbs (optional, for topping if baking)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound (450 g) of elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter. Whisk in 6 tablespoons (45 g) all-purpose flour and cook for about 2 minutes until it smells slightly nutty and turns a pale golden color.
  3. Slowly pour in 4 cups (960 ml) of warm whole milk, whisking constantly to keep the sauce smooth. Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 6-8 minutes.
  4. Add 4 ounces (115 g) of softened cream cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
  5. Stir in 1 teaspoon each of yellow mustard powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  6. Gradually add 4 cups (16 ounces/450 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and fully combined.
  7. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and gently fold together until every piece is coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Optional: Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish. Sprinkle 1 cup (90 g) panko breadcrumbs evenly on top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; cook to just al dente. Use warm milk to avoid lumps. Add cheese gradually off direct heat to prevent graininess. Breadcrumb topping mixed with melted butter adds crunch if baking. Leftovers reheat well with a splash of milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, budget-friendly, comfort food, easy dinner, crowd-pleaser, cheesy pasta

Find it online: https://gleefulfork.com/creamy-bulk-macaroni-and-cheese-recipe-easy-budget-friendly-comfort-food/