Description
This creamy and indulgent Velveeta Mac and Cheese recipe combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich blend of Velveeta and sharp cheddar cheeses, enhanced with subtle notes of onion and garlic powders. Easy to make on the stovetop, it’s a comforting classic perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal any time.
Ingredients
Scale
Liquid Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups milk (divided into 1 cup and ½ cup portions)
- 1 ½ cups water
Spices
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp pepper
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
Dairy
- 2 Tbsp butter
- ½ lb Velveeta cheese (cubed)
- ½ cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- Add Ingredients: In a large pot over medium-high heat, combine 1 cup of milk, 1 ½ cups water, onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper. Stir the mixture well to integrate all spices.
- Add Pasta: Add the 2 cups of uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot and stir to ensure the pasta is submerged evenly in the liquid.
- Boil Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until the macaroni is just al dente – tender but still slightly firm to the bite.
- Melt Butter and Velveeta: Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter until melted completely. Then add the remaining ½ cup of milk along with the cubed Velveeta cheese. Continue stirring the pasta until the Velveeta is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add Sharp Cheddar: Remove the pot from heat. Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and stir thoroughly until the cheddar is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Serve: Serve the Velveeta Mac and Cheese immediately while warm and creamy for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- The macaroni should be cooked to al dente to avoid mushiness when mixed with cheese.
- For a thicker cheese sauce, reduce the water slightly or use the full amount of milk incrementally.
- Use freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese for better melting compared to pre-shredded varieties.
- This recipe serves 4 as a main dish.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Velveeta Mac and Cheese, creamy mac and cheese, stovetop macaroni and cheese, easy mac and cheese recipe, cheesy pasta
