My nephew was never a mac and cheese fan until I made this version for his birthday. Now he tells everyone it is the only one worth eating and honestly I never have leftovers to bring home.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: brings the perfect bite and soaks up all the cheesy sauce use bronze die pasta for more texture
- Cheddar cheese: for classic sharpness opt for a good quality block and shred it fresh at home
- Mozzarella cheese: for that essential stretchy melt buy whole milk mozzarella for best results
- Gouda cheese: adds a buttery nutty note try to grab a smoked version for extra depth
- Parmesan cheese: brings salty bold flavor aged parmesan will give more punch
- Cream cheese: creates the ultimate smooth creamy base let it soften fully before starting
- Milk: helps bring all the cheeses together use whole milk for richness
- Butter: starts the sauce off with real flavor and silkiness
- Garlic powder: adds warming undertones try granulated garlic for subtle but lasting taste
- Salt and pepper: for balancing the cheese flavors fresh cracked pepper works best
