Name: Creamy Spaghetti Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 10 oz / 300 g spaghetti noodles; 2 cups / 240 g / 9 oz freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese; 4 slices American cheese, cut into quarters; 3 oz / 90 g cream cheese, cut into chunks; 1 tbsp butter (salted or unsalted); 1 1/2 cups / 360 ml / 12 fl oz whole milk; 2 tsp Dijon mustard; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp ground black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder

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If you’re craving a dish that combines the comforting creaminess of mac and cheese with the familiar charm of spaghetti, you’re in for a treat with this Creamy Spaghetti Mac and Cheese Recipe. It’s a luscious, cheesy delight that elevates simple pantry staples into something irresistibly cozy and satisfying. The gooey blend of sharp cheddar, American cheese, and cream cheese creates a velvety sauce that hugs every strand of spaghetti, making each bite a comforting celebration of flavor and texture. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for your family, this recipe brings warmth and joy to the table with every forkful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a white ceramic pot containing two layers of ingredients: a base layer of light yellow shredded cheese fills most of the pot, and on top are several chunks of white cream cheese and a small piece of pale yellow butter. A light wooden spoon rests inside the pot with its handle extending out. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface and a white plate with yellow squares is partially visible nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward whipping up this creamy pasta masterpiece. Each option here plays a vital role in building the layers of taste, richness, and a perfect silky texture that defines the Creamy Spaghetti Mac and Cheese Recipe.

10 oz / 300 g spaghetti noodles: The classic noodle that soaks up all that cheesy goodness beautifully.
2 cups / 240 g / 9 oz freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar adds a bold, tangy flavor that’s essential to this dish’s character.
4 slices American cheese, cut into quarters: This cheese melts smoothly, ensuring the sauce is incredibly creamy and velvety.
3 oz / 90 g cream cheese, cut into chunks: Cream cheese lends that extra luscious, silky mouthfeel you’ll love.
1 tbsp butter (salted or unsalted): Adds richness and helps bring the sauce together with a subtle buttery note.
1 1/2 cups / 360 ml / 12 fl oz whole milk: Whole milk makes the sauce perfectly smooth and creamy without being too heavy.
2 tsp Dijon mustard: Injects a gentle tang and a nice depth of flavor, balancing the richness.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and ensures nothing tastes flat or dull.
1/2 tsp ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle heat and complexity.
1/2 tsp garlic powder: Brings a mild savory note that complements the cheesy sauce beautifully.

How to Make Creamy Spaghetti Mac and Cheese Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti

Begin by boiling the spaghetti in salted water until just al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes. Be sure not to overcook because the pasta will soak up some sauce later, and you want it to remain firm with a pleasant bite.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce Base

While the pasta is cooking, place the butter in a large pan over medium heat and let it melt completely. Add the cream cheese chunks, stirring until fully melted and smooth. This forms the rich, creamy foundation of your sauce.

Step 3: Add Milk and Seasonings

Pour in the whole milk gradually while continuously stirring. Add the Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Keep stirring to combine everything smoothly and allow the sauce to warm through but not boil.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheeses

Reduce the heat to low, then add the freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese along with the quartered American cheese slices. Stir until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is luxuriously creamy and thick.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Drain the spaghetti and immediately add it to the cheese sauce. Toss or stir gently until every strand of spaghetti is thoroughly coated with the creamy, cheesy mixture. The pasta should glisten with sauce, inviting you to dig in.

How to Serve Creamy Spaghetti Mac and Cheese Recipe

A white pot filled with cooked spaghetti forming the base layer, pale yellow in color with a soft texture. On top of the spaghetti, several irregular pieces of bright orange cheddar cheese are spread unevenly, some pieces slightly melting and glistening. The pot has a simple white interior and rests on a white marbled textured surface with a grey and white patterned cloth partially visible underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To make your dish pop visually and add layers of flavor, try sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley, a dusting of smoked paprika, or a scattering of crispy breadcrumbs on top. These simple touches elevate the Creamy Spaghetti Mac and Cheese Recipe from comforting to downright irresistible.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette or some steamed seasonal vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans. These sides cut through the richness and add a refreshing balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your creamy pasta in individual ramekins and broil with a crunchy breadcrumb topping until golden brown. This adds a delicious textural contrast that makes the dish perfect for entertaining or a cozy solo dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers of the Creamy Spaghetti Mac and Cheese Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy another comforting meal without extra effort.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, but it’s best to do so before baking if you add a crisp topping, or without the topping altogether. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat leftover mac and cheese gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of milk helps restore the creamy texture that might be lost during storage.

FAQs

Can I use different pasta instead of spaghetti?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works wonderfully here, feel free to opt for any pasta shape you have on hand like elbow macaroni, penne, or shells. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to all kinds of noodles.

What can I substitute for American cheese?

If you don’t have American cheese, try using mild cheddar or Monterey Jack for a similar melt and creamy texture. The key is to use a cheese that melts smoothly to maintain that luscious sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

This Creamy Spaghetti Mac and Cheese Recipe is a total winner with kids thanks to its familiar cheesy flavor and soft noodles. You can even sneak in some pureed veggies into the sauce for added nutrition without compromising taste.

Can I make it dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, use non-dairy milk alternatives like oat or almond milk and substitute the cheeses with vegan cheese options that melt well. The texture and flavor will be different but still deliciously creamy.

How do I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

If your sauce feels too thin, let it simmer gently a bit longer to reduce and thicken. To thin it out, simply stir in a little more milk until you reach the desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the joy of digging into a bowl of the Creamy Spaghetti Mac and Cheese Recipe—a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple, comforting, and endlessly adaptable, making it a perfect go-to recipe for any occasion. I hope you give this recipe a try soon and discover your own favorite way to enjoy this cheesy, dreamy delight!