Paula Deen’s Mac And Cheese

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Pasta: Elbow macaroni is traditional, but cavatappi or any short pasta works great too. If you have gluten-free pasta on hand, that’s a fantastic substitute!

Cheese: Sharp cheddar is essential for flavor, while Colby Jack adds creaminess. You can mix in other kinds like Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a kick!

Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess. If you need a lighter option, you could substitute Greek yogurt or skip it altogether, though the texture might change a bit.

Milk: Whole milk gives the best results. If you’re dairy-free, try unsweetened almond milk or oat milk; just know the flavor and texture will vary.

How Do You Make a Perfect Cheese Sauce?

Making a cheese sauce can seem tricky, but following a few simple steps will make it easy!

• Start by melting butter and whisking in flour to create a roux—this helps thicken the sauce.
• Add milk slowly while whisking constantly to keep the sauce smooth. Be patient and let it thicken before adding cheese.
• Once the sauce has thickened, off the heat, stir in cream cheese for extra creaminess, then gradually add your shredded cheeses until fully melted.

Taking your time here makes a huge difference in the texture and taste of your mac and cheese!

Paula Deen’s Mac And Cheese

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 4 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Colby Jack cheese, shredded
• 2 ounces cream cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to bake, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for any occasion!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven:

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s hot and ready for the mac and cheese later.

2. Cook the Pasta:

In a large pot of boiling water, cook the macaroni according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

3. Make the Roux:

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Then, whisk in the flour gradually. Keep whisking for about 1-2 minutes until it bubbles but doesn’t turn brown, creating a nice roux.

4. Add the Milk:

Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens and looks like a gravy—this could take a few minutes.

5. Incorporate Cream Cheese:

Lower the heat and mix in the cream cheese, stirring until it’s completely melted and mixed with the sauce.

6. Mix in the Cheddar:

Next, add in the shredded sharp cheddar and Colby Jack cheeses, stirring until they melt into a smooth, creamy sauce.

7. Season the Sauce:

Now, season your cheese sauce with salt, pepper, and paprika if you’re using it. Taste and adjust seasonings to your preference!

8. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir until every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious cheesy goodness.

9. Transfer to Baking Dish:

Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish or individual oven-safe bowls, spreading it evenly.

10. Add Extra Cheese:

For that extra bubbly crust, sprinkle some additional shredded cheddar cheese on top.

11. Bake It:

Pop the dishes in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.

12. Cool and Garnish:

Once done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely touch!

Now enjoy your delicious, creamy Paula Deen’s mac and cheese! It’s perfect as a side dish or a delightful main course!

Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar and Colby Jack are traditional, feel free to mix in other favorites like Monterey Jack, pepper jack for some spice, or even mozzarella for a different texture.

How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?

If you’re looking to lighten it up, consider using low-fat milk instead of whole milk, and reduce the amount of cheese. You can also add in some steamed vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition!

Can I Make This Mac and Cheese Vegan?

Yes! To make it vegan, swap the butter for a plant-based butter, use non-dairy milk, and use vegan cheese alternatives. You can even substitute the cream cheese with a cashew cream or coconut cream for creaminess.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the microwave or warm it in a pot on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it seems dry!