Viral Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
This Viral Macaroni and Cheese recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Featuring tender cooked macaroni combined with a rich cheese and cream sauce, this dish is a timeless favorite that satisfies cravings with its smooth texture and bold flavor.
- Author: Sophie
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Macaroni
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Cook the Pasta: Bring 4 cups of salted water to a boil in a large pot. Add 2 cups of elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, approximately 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot or a separate saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and warm it gently without boiling. Gradually add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Return the drained macaroni to the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir thoroughly to ensure all the pasta is coated with the creamy cheese mixture. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Serve the macaroni and cheese hot as a comforting main dish or side.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more intense flavor.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be less rich.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or mustard powder to enhance the cheese sauce if desired.
- To add texture, top with breadcrumbs and broil for a few minutes to create a crispy crust.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Keywords: macaroni and cheese, classic comfort food, creamy cheese pasta, easy dinner, cheesy recipe