Description
This Velveeta Mac and Cheese is the ultimate creamy comfort food! Made with melty Velveeta cheese and tender macaroni, it’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked, about 8 oz)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2% for creaminess)
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 7-9 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly.
- Add Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring until smooth and thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Melt the Velveeta: Reduce heat to low. Add cubed Velveeta, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using). Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot, optionally garnished with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a baked version, transfer to a greased 9×9-inch dish, top with breadcrumbs or extra cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden.
- Add cooked bacon bits or broccoli for extra flavor and texture.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 65mg