Description
A creamy, velvety mac and cheese inspired by Boston Market’s famous version, featuring a perfect blend of sharp cheddar and mild cheeses.
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 4 oz Colby or mild cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 4 oz American cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to make a roux.
- Gradually add milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Cook sauce until thickened, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and add cheeses gradually, stirring until melted.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and nutmeg if using.
- Fold in cooked macaroni until well combined.
- Serve hot while cheese sauce is creamy.
Notes
- Always use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce.
- Remove pot from heat before adding cheese to prevent graininess.
- Make it ahead by preparing slightly thinner; reheat with a splash of milk.
- For best results, serve immediately while sauce is hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: boston market mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, copycat recipe, comfort food
