Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Velveeta Mac and Cheese recipe! Creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying, this homemade baked mac and cheese is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or whenever you’re craving a hearty dish. Featuring Velveeta cheese for unmatched smoothness and a crispy Panko breadcrumb topping, this dish will be your new go-to for mac and cheese lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Ultra Creamy & Smooth – Velveeta melts beautifully for a rich and silky sauce.
- Perfectly Cheesy – A mix of Velveeta and sharp cheddar for bold flavor.
- Golden Crunchy Topping – Panko breadcrumbs add a satisfying crisp.
- Quick & Easy – Simple steps make this an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients Breakdown
Mac and Cheese Base:
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Elbow Macaroni – The classic pasta shape for soaking up all that creamy cheese sauce.
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Unsalted Butter & All-Purpose Flour – Forms a roux to thicken the cheese sauce.
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Dry Mustard Powder & Onion Powder – Enhances the flavor with a slight tang and depth.
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Whole Milk – Creates a smooth, creamy consistency.
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Velveeta Cheese – The star ingredient, giving the sauce its signature velvety texture.
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Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds a bold, cheesy kick and balances the Velveeta’s creaminess.
Topping:
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Panko Bread Crumbs – Provides a crispy, crunchy contrast to the creamy mac and cheese.
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Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Melts into the topping for extra cheesiness.
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Melted Butter – Helps brown and crisp up the Panko for a golden, buttery crust.
Tips and Tricks:
- Extra Creaminess: Add a splash of heavy cream or extra milk to the sauce for an even richer texture.
- Spice it Up: Add a dash of hot sauce, paprika, or cayenne for a little kick.
- More Cheese? Yes Please! Try adding Monterey Jack or Gouda for extra depth of flavor.
Variations and Customizations:
- Meaty Twist: Stir in cooked bacon bits, shredded rotisserie chicken, or crispy pancetta.
- Veggie Loaded: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted broccoli.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.
Pairing Suggestions:
- Main Course: Serve alongside grilled chicken, BBQ ribs, or roasted turkey.
- Side Dish: Pair with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables.
- Beverage: Enjoy with sweet iced tea, lemonade, or a glass of white wine.
Storage Instructions:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave with a splash of milk, or bake at 350°F until heated through.
- Freeze: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Popular Questions:
1. Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes! Shells, cavatappi, or penne work well for holding the creamy cheese sauce.
2. What’s the best way to make it extra gooey?
Add an extra ½ cup of Velveeta and an extra splash of milk while melting the cheese.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve