ULTIMATE COMFORT: HOW TO MAKE THE CREAMIEST MAC AND CHEESE

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE

Article Published on: 26TH JUNE 2025 | www.demodemagazine.com

Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying. But making the creamiest mac and cheese requires a few tips and tricks to elevate it from a simple dish to a rich, velvety masterpiece. Here’s how to create the ultimate mac and cheese.

1. Choose the Right Pasta

Start with elbow macaroni, the classic choice, as it holds the cheese sauce well. However, you can experiment with other pasta shapes, like shells or cavatappi, for added texture and fun.

2. Make a Roux for the Perfect Base

The key to a creamy sauce is starting with a roux—a mixture of butter and flour. Melt butter in a saucepan, and whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth paste. Cook for a minute or two to remove the raw flour taste, then gradually whisk in milk or heavy cream to create a smooth base. For extra richness, use whole milk or half-and-half.

3. Use a Blend of Cheeses

To achieve the creamiest mac and cheese, opt for a combination of cheeses. Sharp cheddar provides the classic flavor, while mozzarella adds stretchiness, and Gruyère or fontina brings depth and creaminess. Grate the cheese yourself rather than using pre-shredded varieties for a smoother texture.

4. Don’t Overcook the Pasta

Cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the cheese sauce. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and waterlogged, making your dish less creamy.

5. Combine and Bake (Optional)Once the pasta is cooked, toss it in the creamy cheese sauce until well coated. For an extra touch of decadence, top with breadcrumbs and bake it for a golden, crispy topping. However, mac and cheese is just as delicious served straight from the stovetop without baking.

With these tips, you’ll have the creamiest mac and cheese that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.