Best Mac & Chese Ever
BEST MAC & CHESE EVER! is a medium American recipe that serves 6. 620 calories per serving. Recipe by Mr. Make It Happen on YouTube.
Prep: 20 min | Cook: 30 min | Total: 1 hr 5 min
Cost: $13.40 total, $2.23 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (cut into small cubes)
- 4 cups Heavy Cream (full‑fat for maximum richness)
- 8 ounces Cream Cheese (room temperature, softened)
- 2 teaspoons All‑Purpose Seasoning Blend (mix of garlic powder, pepper, and a pinch of salt)
- 2 teaspoons Chicken Bouillon Powder (1 tsp for sauce, 1 tsp for pasta water)
- 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese (sharp cheddar, freshly shredded)
- 1 cup Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese (freshly shredded)
- 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (part‑skim, shredded)
- 1 cup Shredded Colby Jack Cheese (freshly shredded)
- 1 cup Shredded Smoked Gouda Cheese (adds a subtle smoky flavor)
- 1 pound Elbow Macaroni Pasta (dry, any short pasta shape works)
Instructions
Melt Butter and Combine Cream Base
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the heavy cream and stir until just simmering, then whisk in the softened cream cheese until the mixture is completely smooth.
Time: PT5M
Temperature: Medium heat
Season the Sauce
Stir in the all‑purpose seasoning blend and 1 teaspoon of chicken bouillon powder. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Time: PT2M
Add the Cheese Blend
Gradually add all shredded cheeses (cheddar, Monterey Jack, mozzarella, Colby Jack, smoked Gouda) to the sauce, stirring constantly until each addition melts completely.
Time: PT6M
Boil the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the remaining 1 teaspoon of chicken bouillon powder, then add the pasta. Cook according to package directions until al dente.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: Boiling
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta, add a handful of extra shredded cheese for extra stretch, and toss until evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, thin with reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time.
Time: PT3M
Bake
Transfer the cheesy pasta to a greased 9×13‑inch baking dish. Bake in a pre‑heated oven at 350°F for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
Time: PT20M
Temperature: 350°F
Rest and Serve
Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set and makes serving easier.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 620
- Protein
- 22g
- Carbohydrates
- 45g
- Fat
- 38g
- Fiber
- 2g
Dietary info: Vegetarian
Allergens: Dairy, Gluten
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine
- Instead of Heavy Cream: Half‑and‑half (will be less creamy)
- Instead of Cream Cheese: Neufchatel cheese (lower fat)
- Instead of All‑Purpose Seasoning Blend: Garlic powder + black pepper
- Instead of Chicken Bouillon Powder: Vegetable bouillon powder
- Instead of Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Colby cheese
- Instead of Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese: Havarti
- Instead of Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Provolone
- Instead of Shredded Colby Jack Cheese: Monterey Jack
- Instead of Shredded Smoked Gouda Cheese: Smoked mozzarella
- Instead of Elbow Macaroni Pasta: cavatappi, shells
Equipment Needed
- Large Saucepan
- Medium Saucepan
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Colander
- Baking Dish (9×13 inch)
- Oven
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Ensuring the cream cheese fully melts into the cream base for a smooth sauce.
- Adding cheese gradually and stirring constantly to avoid grainy texture.
- Using reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Baking until the top is golden but not over‑cooked.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use room‑temperature cream cheese to prevent clumps.
- Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre‑shredded bagged cheese.
- A pinch of smoked paprika can enhance the smoky flavor of the Gouda.
Troubleshooting
Sauce is grainy or separates.
Keep the heat low, whisk continuously, and add cheese gradually. If separation occurs, whisk in a splash of warm milk or extra cream.
Pasta is mushy after baking.
Cook pasta al dente and reserve enough cooking water to thin the sauce instead of over‑cooking the pasta.
Top isn’t browned enough.
Broil for the last 2‑3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk.
Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat, adding a little milk to restore creaminess.
Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Prepare the cheese sauce up to step 3 and refrigerate for up to 24 hours; reheat gently before mixing with pasta.
- Boil the pasta a day ahead, toss with a little oil, and store in the fridge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of mac and cheese in American comfort food cuisine?
Macaroni and cheese originated in the United States in the 18th century, becoming a staple of American comfort food during the Great Depression and later a classic side for holidays and gatherings. Its creamy, cheesy profile makes it a crowd‑pleaser for events like Easter and cook‑outs.
What are the traditional regional variations of mac and cheese in the United States?
Regional twists include the Southern baked version with a crunchy breadcrumb topping, New England’s stovetop stovetop version with sharp cheddar, and the Louisiana Cajun style that adds spicy sausage and peppers. This recipe leans toward a Southern baked style with a smoky Gouda twist.
How is mac and cheese traditionally served in the Southern United States?
In the South, mac and cheese is often baked in a casserole dish until the top is golden and crispy, sometimes topped with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs. It’s served as a side dish at family gatherings, barbecues, and holiday meals.
What occasions or celebrations is mac and cheese traditionally associated with in American culture?
Mac and cheese is a go‑to dish for Thanksgiving, Easter brunches, backyard barbecues, and casual family dinners. Its easy preparation and crowd‑pleasing flavor make it a staple for pot‑lucks and holiday spreads.
What other American dishes pair well with this creamy no‑rouxe mac and cheese?
Pair it with grilled chicken, roasted pork tenderloin, a crisp green salad with vinaigrette, or classic Southern sides like collard greens and cornbread for a balanced meal.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making this creamy no‑rouxe mac and cheese?
Common pitfalls include overheating the cream base, adding cheese too quickly (which causes graininess), overcooking the pasta, and not using enough pasta water to thin the sauce. Follow the critical steps and keep the heat moderate for a silky sauce.
Why does this recipe use heavy cream and cream cheese instead of a traditional roux?
Heavy cream and cream cheese create a naturally thick, velvety sauce without the need for flour, keeping the dish gluten‑free and giving it a richer mouthfeel. This method also speeds up preparation by skipping the roux stage.
Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes. Prepare the cheese sauce up to step 3 and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Boil the pasta ahead of time, store it dry, then combine and bake when ready. Store leftovers in the fridge for 3‑4 days or freeze for up to a month.
What texture and appearance should I look for when the sauce is done?
The sauce should be glossy, smooth, and coat the back of a spoon without clumps. When baked, the top will be golden‑brown and bubbling, indicating a perfect crust.
How do I know when the mac and cheese is done cooking in the oven?
The dish is done when the edges are bubbling, the top is golden, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out hot. If you like extra crispness, broil for the last 2 minutes.
What does the YouTube channel Mr. Make It Happen specialize in?
The YouTube channel Mr. Make It Happen specializes in practical, step‑by‑step home cooking tutorials that focus on quick, crowd‑pleasing recipes for everyday occasions, often adding creative twists to classic dishes.
How does the YouTube channel Mr. Make It Happen's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
Mr. Make It Happen emphasizes minimal equipment, clear visual cues, and shortcuts like using cream cheese for instant creaminess, making classic comfort foods accessible for home cooks of all skill levels, whereas many channels focus on elaborate techniques.
Last updated: September 2, 2026
