Get ready to saddle up for the most mouthwatering, creamy, and irresistible mac and cheese experience that'll make your taste buds do a happy dance! This isn't just any ordinary mac and cheese – this is the Creamy Cowboy Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese that'll transport you straight to comfort food heaven. With a rich, velvety cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is about to become your new go-to dish that'll have everyone at the table begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients: 1 lb elbow macaroni, 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, 2 cups milk, 1/2 cup cream cheese, 1/4 cup butter, 1 tsp garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes.
- While the macaroni is cooking, prepare the cheese sauce. In a separate large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, add the cream cheese to the saucepan and stir until it begins to soften and combine with the butter.
- Gradually pour in the milk while stirring continuously to ensure a smooth mixture. Continue to cook for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is heated through but not boiling.
- Add the garlic powder to the milk and cream cheese mixture, stirring well to incorporate the flavor.
- Slowly add the shredded cheddar cheese to the saucepan, a handful at a time, stirring constantly until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Once the macaroni is cooked, drain it well and return it to the pot.
- Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the drained macaroni, stirring gently to combine until all the pasta is coated in the cheese sauce.
- Season the macaroni and cheese with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as necessary based on your preference.
- Serve the creamy cowboy stovetop macaroni and cheese hot, garnished with additional cheese or herbs if desired.
Tips
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged shredded cheese. It melts more smoothly and creates a creamier sauce.
- Salt Your Pasta Water: Make sure to generously salt the boiling water before cooking the macaroni. This is your first chance to add flavor to the dish.
- Low and Slow Cheese Melting: Add cheese gradually and stir constantly to prevent clumping and achieve a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Don't Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente – the pasta will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot cheese sauce.
- Customize Your Cowboy Mac: Feel free to add crispy bacon bits, diced jalapeños, or even some breadcrumbs on top for extra texture.
- Reheat with Care: If you have leftovers, add a splash of milk when reheating to restore the creamy consistency.Pro Tip: For an extra indulgent twist, try mixing in different types of cheese like Gruyère or pepper jack to create your own signature mac and cheese!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 571kcal
Carbohydrates: 62g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
