Creamy Copycat Kraft Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that both kids and adults love, look no further! This Copycat Kraft Mac and Cheese recipe is irresistibly cheesy, creamy, and easy to whip up—all while taking just 20 minutes.

Why Kids Love It

This mac and cheese is a simple hit, boasting a bright orange hue and a flavor profile that’s a notch above its boxed counterpart. It’s rich, creamy, and guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Let’s dive into making homemade magic!

Ingredients

• Pasta: 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
• Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Flour: 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Milk: 2 cups whole milk
• Cheeses:
  • 8 oz Cracker Barrel Cheddar, shredded
  • 4 oz Colby Jack cheese, shredded
• Seasonings:
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free pasta and 1:1 gluten-free flour in the roux.
• Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter, almond milk (unflavored), and plant-based cheese for a delightful dairy-free version.

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Boil 2 cups of elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.

2. Make the Roux:

   • In a large Dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
   • Whisk in 4 tablespoons of flour until all the butter is absorbed and there are no lumps.

3. Add Milk:

   • Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly.

4. Create Cheese Sauce:

   • Once simmering, add salt, pepper, and the shredded cheddar and Colby Jack cheeses. Stir until smooth and creamy. Remove from heat.

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

   • Add the cooked pasta back into the Dutch oven. Mix well to coat the pasta in cheese sauce. If it’s too thick, stir in the reserved pasta water a couple of tablespoons at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Equipment

• 4-quart Dutch oven (or larger)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Colander

Tips for Success

• Shred Your Cheese: For the best melting consistency, buy block cheese and shred it yourself instead of using pre-shredded.
• Flavor Up Your Water: Season pasta water generously with salt—this enhances flavor right from the start.
• Personal Skillets: For a fun twist, serve individual portions where kids can customize their own toppings like bacon or veggies.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store uneaten mac and cheese in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of milk.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze in a disposable container for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Copycat Kraft Mac and Cheese is not only quick and easy but also a staple that can evolve with different ingredients and dietary preferences. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a fun kids’ meal, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

Feel free to share and rate if you love this recipe! Enjoy the creamy goodness!