Velveeta Mac and Cheese

If you’re craving a creamy, cheesy, and ultra-comforting macaroni and cheese, look no further than this Velveeta Mac and Cheese recipe. It’s the kind of dish that hugs you from the inside, perfect for cozy nights in, family dinners, or whenever you need a little cheesy indulgence. Velveeta cheese melts like a dream, giving this mac and cheese a smooth, velvety texture that’s simply irresistible. Paired with sharp cheddar for a punch of flavor and a hint of spices like dry mustard, onion, and garlic powders, this recipe transforms simple elbow macaroni into a luscious, cheesy masterpiece.

Whether you’re a seasoned mac and cheese lover or trying it for the first time, this recipe is straightforward, foolproof, and guaranteed to satisfy. Let’s dive into why this version stands out and how you can make it your new favorite way to enjoy mac and cheese.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Velveeta Mac and Cheese is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, the combination of Velveeta and sharp cheddar cheese creates a rich, creamy sauce that’s smooth and flavorful without being overwhelming. Velveeta cheese is known for its perfect meltability, which means your sauce will be silky and cling to every nook of the elbow macaroni.

Second, the addition of dry mustard powder, onion powder, and garlic powder adds depth and a subtle kick, elevating the flavor beyond basic cheese sauce. These spices complement the cheese without overpowering it, making every bite interesting and delicious.

Finally, the recipe is easy to follow and uses pantry staples you likely already have, making it an excellent option for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting dish whenever you need it. Plus, it’s totally customizable, so you can add your favorite extras or keep it simple.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dry elbow macaroni – The classic pasta shape for mac and cheese, perfect for holding onto that cheesy sauce.
• ¼ cup butter – Adds richness and helps create the roux for the cheese sauce.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the cheese sauce to the perfect consistency.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder – Adds a mild savory flavor that complements the cheese.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Gives a subtle garlic aroma and taste.
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder – Enhances the cheese flavor with a slight tang and depth.
• 1 cup milk at room temperature – Makes the sauce creamy; whole milk is best for richness, but you can use alternatives if preferred.
• 2 cups Velveeta cheese, cubed (½ pound total) – The star ingredient that melts smoothly for a creamy cheese sauce.
• ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese – Adds a sharper, tangier cheese flavor to balance the Velveeta.

How To Make Velveeta Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the dry elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 7-8 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside. Don’t rinse the pasta, as the starch helps the sauce stick better.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In the same pot or a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour until it forms a smooth paste. Continue whisking and cooking for about 1-2 minutes. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and begins to thicken the sauce.

Step 3: Add Spices and Milk

Sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, and dry mustard powder, stirring to combine. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Keep whisking until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low. Add the Velveeta cheese cubes and shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the sauce. Stir gently until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is velvety smooth.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Add the cooked elbow macaroni back into the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat every piece of pasta with the luscious cheese sauce. Let it warm through for a couple of minutes on low heat.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Velveeta Mac and Cheese immediately for the creamiest texture. Optionally, garnish with a little extra shredded cheddar or freshly cracked black pepper.

Expert Tips

• Make sure your milk is at room temperature to prevent lumps when adding it to the roux.
• Use freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and flavor.
• Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente is best to avoid mushiness once combined with the cheese sauce.
• Stir the sauce constantly when adding milk and cheese to ensure a smooth, lump-free sauce.
• If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash more milk to reach your desired consistency.
• For extra creaminess, you can add a little cream cheese or sour cream when melting the cheese.

Variations and Customizations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a subtle spicy twist.
• Crunchy Topping: After mixing the pasta with the cheese sauce, transfer to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and cheddar, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and crispy.
• Protein Boost: Stir in cooked chicken, turkey bacon, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier meal.
• Vegetable Add-ins: Mix in steamed broccoli, peas, or roasted red peppers for added color and nutrients.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with gouda, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for unique flavors while keeping Velveeta as the base.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover Velveeta Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to maintain creaminess. If the sauce has thickened too much after refrigeration, add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to loosen it up.

For longer storage, you can freeze the mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as described above.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional and holds the sauce beautifully, you can use other short pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is Velveeta cheese gluten-free?

Velveeta cheese itself is gluten-free, but always check the packaging to ensure there are no added ingredients containing gluten. This recipe uses all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce, which contains gluten. If you need to make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegetarian, as it contains no meat products. Just be sure the cheese you use is made with vegetarian-friendly enzymes if that is a concern for you.

What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?

If you don’t have Velveeta or prefer not to use it, you can substitute with processed cheese slices or a combination of cream cheese and mild cheddar to mimic the creamy meltiness. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will be slightly different.

Conclusion

Velveeta Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy indulgence with simple preparation and familiar ingredients. Its smooth, velvety sauce enriched with dry mustard and aromatic powders elevates this classic dish to a new level of deliciousness. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight dinner or a special side dish, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. With easy customization options and straightforward storage tips, you’ll have plenty of reasons to make this velvety mac and cheese again and again. So grab your pot, melt that cheese, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure cheesy bliss!