Company Mac And Cheese
Creamy, cheesy mac and cheese with a hint of spice and fresh parsley, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions.
- While the macaroni cooks, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute to make a roux.
- Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Add cream cheese cubes and stir until melted and smooth.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, spicy brown mustard, salt, and pepper until cheese melts completely.
- Drain cooked macaroni and add to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine.
- In a small bowl, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter and mix with dry bread crumbs.
- Sprinkle bread crumbs over the mac and cheese.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Garnish with minced fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or using different types of cheese like Gruyère or Monterey Jack. If you prefer a bit of heat, a dash of cayenne pepper can enhance the flavor. Ensure to whisk the sauce continuously to prevent lumps. You can also use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-free diets.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Company Mac and Cheese alongside a simple green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with the Tahitian Coffee Cake for dessert. Consider offering a variety of hot sauces on the side for guests who enjoy some extra heat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through. For a crispy topping, you can also reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Company Mac And Cheese contains roughly 916 calories, with 28g protein, 46g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (56% of the Daily Value), calcium (49% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1973mg per serving (86% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you prefer not to use cream cheese, you can substitute it with an equal amount of sour cream or ricotta cheese for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to blend it well for a smooth consistency.
Can I add vegetables to this mac and cheese?
Certainly! Adding cooked vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or roasted bell peppers can enhance the nutrition and flavor. Stir them into the cheese sauce before combining with the macaroni for a delicious twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).