Creamette Mac and Cheese Recipe : Creamy, Cheesy & Comforting Classic!
Craving creamy, cheesy comfort food that warms your soul? My Creamette Mac and Cheese Recipe is the perfect answer. With its velvety cheddar sauce and tender elbow macaroni, this dish remains a family favourite that has stood the test of time. Whether served as a main dish or a hearty side, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Unlike boxed mixes, this homemade version offers rich flavour and the flexibility to customize it with extra spices, crispy breadcrumbs, or different cheeses. Trust me, you’ll never go back once you’ve tried this baked Creamette Mac and Cheese!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making Creamette Mac and Cheese from scratch is easier than you think. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a cheesy, comforting dish ready in no time.
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add 2 cups of Creamette elbow macaroni and cook for 8 minutes, until tender but still firm (al dente).
- Drain the pasta well and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt two tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour, one teaspoon of dry mustard, and one teaspoon of salt.
- Whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a smooth, evenly blended roux.
- Slowly add 2 ½ cups of milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Cook until the sauce slightly thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce.
- Stir until every piece of pasta is coated in that velvety, cheesy goodness.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish
- Lightly grease a 2-quart baking dish.
- Pour in the macaroni and cheese mixture.
- Sprinkle the top with the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese.
- (Optional) Add ½ cup breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter for a crunchy topping.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the dish uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Creamette Mac And Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
Video
Notes
Required Kitchen Tools
Having the right tools makes preparing homemade Creamette Mac and Cheese easy and enjoyable. Here’s what I use:- Large Pot – For boiling the macaroni until tender.
- Medium Saucepan – To prepare the creamy cheese sauce.
- Whisk – Ensures smooth blending of flour, milk, and spices.
- Mixing Spoon – For stirring pasta and sauce together.
- 2-Quart Baking Dish – Perfect size for baking this mac and cheese.
- Oven – For that golden bubbly cheese topping.
Serving Suggestions
Homemade Creamette Mac and Cheese is incredibly versatile. Here’s how I love to serve it:
- Main Dish: Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
- Side Dish: Serve alongside BBQ ribs, fried chicken, or baked ham—it’s a classic comfort food combo.
- Potluck Favourite: This baked mac and cheese is perfect for parties and gatherings, as it travels well and stays creamy.
Flavor Variations
Want to put your own spin on this Creamette Mac and Cheese Recipe? Try these tasty variations:
- Cheese Blend Twist: Add mozzarella, Colby Jack, or Gruyère for an extra cheesy depth.
- Smoky Flavour: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or use smoked cheddar cheese for a smoky flflavour
- Spicy Kick: Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat lovers.
- Protein Boost: Fold in cooked bacon bits, shredded chicken, or diced ham for a heartier dish.
- Veggie Add-In: Mix in broccoli florets, peas, or sautéed mushrooms to sneak in extra nutrients.
Flavor Tips
- Always shred your cheese fresh for the creamiest melt (pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that affect texture).
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it will continue to cook while baking.
- For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top before baking.
- A dash of garlic powder or mustard powder adds depth to the cheese sauce without overpowering it.
Storage Instructions
Homemade Creamette Mac and Cheese tastes best when fresh out of the oven, but it can also be easily stored and reheated for later.
Refrigeration
- Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3–4 days.
Freezing
- Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake at 350°F until heated through.
Reheating Tips
- For the creamiest texture, reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop with a splash of milk.
- Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out the pasta.
Creamette Mac And Cheese Recipe
Ingredients
Video
Notes
Required Kitchen Tools
Having the right tools makes preparing homemade Creamette Mac and Cheese easy and enjoyable. Here’s what I use:- Large Pot – For boiling the macaroni until tender.
- Medium Saucepan – To prepare the creamy cheese sauce.
- Whisk – Ensures smooth blending of flour, milk, and spices.
- Mixing Spoon – For stirring pasta and sauce together.
- 2-Quart Baking Dish – Perfect size for baking this mac and cheese.
- Oven – For that golden bubbly cheese topping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make Creamette Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the mac and cheese up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake at 375°F for 25–30 minutes until hot and bubbly.
2. What cheese works best for mac and cheese?
Sharp cheddar is the classic choice, but you can also opt for mozzarella, Gruyère, or other cheeses for an extra-rich flavour.
3. How do I keep my mac and cheese creamy and not dry?
Don’t overbake it. Also, adding a splash of milk or cream to the sauce helps keep the pasta moist and creamy.
4. Can I make this recipe without baking it?
Absolutely! If you prefer stovetop mac and cheese, skip the oven step. Serve it immediately after combining the pasta and cheese sauce for a quick, creamy version.
5. Can I add meat or vegetables to this Creamette Mac and Cheese Recipe?
Yes! Bacon, ham, shredded chicken, or ground beef make it more filling. For vegetables, broccoli, peas, or spinach work really well.
6. How long will leftovers last?
Stored properly in an airtight container, leftovers last 3–4 days in the fridge. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months.
7. Is Creamette Mac and Cheese kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids love its cheesy flavour and creamy texture. You can even sneak in small pieces of vegetables without significantly altering the taste.
Conclusion
And there you have it, my Creamette Mac and Cheese Recipe! A creamy, cheesy, oven-baked classic that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy weeknight dinner, a side dish at a family gathering, or a comforting make-ahead freezer meal, this recipe delivers rich flavour and ultimate comfort every single time.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; you can keep it simple and traditional or elevate it with extra spices, proteins, or vegetables. Either way, you’re guaranteed a golden, bubbling dish of mac and cheese that will have everyone asking for seconds.
So go ahead, grab your Creamette elbow macaroni, some cheddar cheese, and make this irresistible mac and cheese today. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Sophia Smith is a passionate home baker and dessert enthusiast who loves sharing her favorite recipes, baking tips, and kitchen secrets. Through Roses Baking Passion, she inspires others to bake with love and creativity every day.
