Introduction

Easy Creamy Mac ‘N Cheese is a comforting classic that’s perfect for any meal. This simple recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich, cheesy sauce made from scratch. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a family favorite that’s both satisfying and delicious.

A black cast iron dish filled with creamy yellow macaroni and cheese sits on a folded blue cloth napkin, placed on a white plate with yellow stripes around the edge; the macaroni is topped with small bits of green herbs. The plate rests on a white marbled surface floor. In the top right corner, a small white plate holds fresh salad greens in various shades of green and purple. Near the bottom right, a small round bowl contains coarse black pepper. A wooden-handled spoon is placed inside the cast iron dish, its handle resting on the edge of the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces elbow macaroni
1 1/2 cups milk
1/4 cup Country Crock® Original Spread
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the macaroni in a large pot according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, whisk together the milk, Country Crock® Original Spread, and flour in a large saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, whisking frequently to prevent lumps.
Step 3: Reduce the heat to low and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely, then remove the sauce from heat.
Step 5: Return the drained pasta to the pot and toss it with the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For extra creaminess, use whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
Try mixing in cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for added flavor and texture.
Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more intense cheesy taste.
To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage

Store leftover mac ‘n cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess as needed.

How to Serve

A small black cast iron dish filled with creamy yellow macaroni and cheese, topped with finely chopped green herbs, rests on a folded blue cloth napkin. This is placed in the center of a white plate with yellow patterns, which itself sits on a larger plain white plate. To the top right, a white plate holds a mixed green salad with visible dark red and light green leafy vegetables. Below the salad plate, a small wooden bowl contains black pepper. The whole setting is on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any small pasta shape like shells, rotini, or penne works well in this recipe.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from clumping?

Whisk continuously while heating the milk, butter, and flour mixture to avoid lumps. Also, add cheese off the heat and stir until melted smoothly.

Creamy Mac ‘N Cheese Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 65 reviews

This Easy Creamy Mac ‘N Cheese recipe offers a classic comfort food experience with a rich, velvety cheese sauce made from cheddar and Country Crock Original Spread. Perfectly cooked elbow macaroni is tossed in a creamy, flavorful sauce that comes together quickly on the stovetop, making it an ideal dish for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Author: Maya
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

8 ounces elbow macaroni

Sauce

1 1/2 cups milk
1/4 cup Country Crock® Original Spread
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: While the pasta cooks, whisk together the milk, Country Crock® Original Spread, and flour in a large saucepan. Heat over medium-high, bringing the mixture to a boil while whisking frequently to prevent lumps.
Thicken the Sauce: Once boiling, reduce the heat and continue to cook the sauce, stirring occasionally, until it thickens, about 5 minutes.
Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
Toss Pasta and Sauce: Return the drained pasta to the pot and toss with the prepared cheese sauce to coat evenly. Serve warm.

Notes

For extra creaminess, use whole milk or add a splash of cream.
You can substitute cheddar with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyere for different flavors.
To add a crunchy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs and bake briefly in the oven before serving.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and flour alternatives.
Make sure to whisk continuously when heating the sauce to avoid lumps.

Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese, stovetop mac and cheese, comfort food