Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this delicious Mac & Cheese Recipe, reimagined without bacon but packed with flavor. Creamy cheeses melt perfectly over tender pasta shells, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or any occasion when you crave something rich and satisfying. This recipe embraces customization, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or substitute chicken or turkey for an extra twist. It’s easy to prepare and sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy a delightful serving of this creamy mac and cheese that’s both indulgent and comforting!

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb medium pasta shells
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup flour
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups milk
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1 cup gruyere cheese, shredded
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Optional: caramelized onions (2 large yellow onions, 2 tablespoons butter, 1 tablespoon olive oil)

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Instructions

Slice onions into even ¼-inch pieces.
In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and olive oil, then add onions. Cook until caramelized (40–50 minutes), stirring occasionally.
In a large skillet over low heat, cook chicken or turkey cut into small pieces until crispy; set aside.
Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente; drain well.
In the same skillet used for meat, whisk butter and flour for about 2 minutes; gradually add heavy cream and milk while stirring.
Add mustard powder, thyme, garlic powder, and hot sauce; bring to boil then lower heat.
Add cheeses gradually until melted and smooth; mix in caramelized onions and drained pasta.
Stir in cooked chicken or turkey if desired.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 560
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 820mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 85mg