Name: Mac and Cheese with Cream Cheese
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 4 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 1/2 cups milk; 1 tablespoon butter; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/4 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper, to taste

Mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food, but sometimes it can use a little twist to make it even creamier and more indulgent. This 4-Mac and Cheese with Cream Cheese brings that extra level of creaminess and richness to the table. It’s the perfect dish to make for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing side for any meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it takes the classic mac and cheese and makes it even more luxurious. The cream cheese adds an extra smoothness that perfectly complements the sharpness of cheddar, creating a sauce that’s rich but not too heavy. It’s simple, yet the flavors blend so beautifully. The combination of the four cheeses gives the mac and cheese an unbeatable depth, making it a dish everyone will want to devour.

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 cups milk
1 tablespoon butter
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

(HERE’S A TIP: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic powder and onion powder, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the milk to the saucepan, stirring occasionally until it starts to warm up.
Lower the heat and add the cream cheese, stirring until it’s fully incorporated and the sauce becomes smooth.
Gradually add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour the drained macaroni into the sauce and stir well to coat every piece in the cheesy goodness.
Once the macaroni is evenly mixed with the sauce, serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings and takes approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor!

Variations

Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a little heat.
Vegetarian Mac and Cheese: Add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli to the sauce for a veggie-packed version of this dish.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave with a splash of milk to bring back its creamy texture, or heat it gently on the stovetop.

FAQs

How can I make mac and cheese creamier?

If I want to make my mac and cheese even creamier, I can add a little more cream cheese or even a small amount of heavy cream to the sauce. The more cheese, the creamier the result!

Can I use other cheeses?

Absolutely! If I don’t have mozzarella or cheddar, I can swap them with other cheeses like Gouda, Gruyère, or Monterey Jack. Just be sure to use a combination of meltable cheeses for the best texture.

Can I make mac and cheese in advance?

Yes, I can prepare the mac and cheese ahead of time and refrigerate it. When I’m ready to serve, just reheat and stir in a little extra milk to keep the sauce smooth.

How do I make mac and cheese spicier?

To make the mac and cheese spicier, I can add a dash of cayenne pepper or mix in some chopped fresh jalapeños when making the sauce.

Can I freeze mac and cheese?

Yes, I can freeze mac and cheese! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. To reheat, bake it from frozen at 350°F for about 25-30 minutes, or microwave until heated through.

Conclusion

This 4-Mac and Cheese with Cream Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with an indulgent twist. The creamy texture and rich cheese flavor are sure to satisfy my cravings. Whether I enjoy it as a side dish or a main meal, it’s always a hit with friends and family. Easy to make and even easier to love!