Super-Creamy Mac and Cheese

Photo Credit
Becky Luigart-Stayner
The Editors
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Makes 6 servings.
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So-o-o-o much better than boxed! A delicious Super-Creamy Mac and Cheese recipe that’s a guaranteed hit with anyone who takes a bite.

Ingredients
1/2 pound elbow noodles
1 teaspoon olive oil
6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) unsalted butter, divided
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk, divided
1 cup chicken stock
1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard
1 teaspoon salt
freshly ground black pepper, to taste
3 cups shredded extra sharp cheddar cheese
3 ounces cream cheese, in pieces, softened
3/4 to 1 cup fine cracker crumbs or panko bread crumbs
Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter a large casserole.
  2. Prepare noodles according to package directions. Drain, transfer to a large bowl, drizzle with oil, and toss to avoid clumping.
  3. Melt 3 tablespoons of butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, add onions, and cook for 5 minutes, or until soft. Add flour and cook for 1 minute more, stirring. Add 1 cup of milk and stir. As the sauce thickens, add the remaining 1 cup of milk. Bring to a simmer. Add chicken stock and heat gently for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring constantly. Add mustard, salt, and pepper. Add cheddar, 1 cup at a time, and stir. Add more as it melts. Add cream cheese and stir until melted.
  4. Pour the sauce over the noodles and stir to coat. Transfer the mixture to the casserole. Sprinkle with cracker crumbs to cover evenly.
  5. Melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter in a pan over low heat and drizzle over the crumbs. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until bubbly.

Super-Creamy Mac and Cheese Variations:

Bacon Mac and Cheese: Add 4 to 5 slices of crisp-cooked, crumbled bacon to the noodles when you add the sauce. Continue as directed.

Pepperoni Pizza Mac and Cheese: Add 1/3 cup of chopped pepperoni slices to the noodles when you add the sauce. Instead of cracker crumbs, cover with sliced tomatoes and additional shredded cheese. Bake as directed.

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The Old Farmer's Almanac Editors

We love introducing fun new recipes as well as time-tested recipes, straight from the archives! Read More from The Old Farmer's Almanac Editors