Nothing beats the creamy, cheesy goodness of Stouffer’s Mac and Cheese, and I’m thrilled to share my copycat recipe with you. Whether you’re craving that nostalgic comfort food or looking to recreate a classic favorite at home, this dish hits all the right notes.
I’ve spent countless evenings perfecting this recipe to capture that perfect balance of smooth cheese and tender pasta. It’s simple to make and brings everyone to the table with a smile. Let’s dive in and whip up a batch of homemade mac and cheese that’s just as satisfying as the original.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
Tools and Equipment
To create the perfect copycat Stouffer’s Mac and Cheese, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what I use in my kitchen to ensure every step is seamless and the final dish is irresistibly creamy.
Essential Tools
- Large Pot: For boiling the elbow macaroni until it’s perfectly tender.
- Colander: To drain the cooked pasta efficiently.
- Medium Saucepan: Ideal for making the rich cheese sauce without burning.
- Whisk: Ensures a smooth and lump-free sauce by thoroughly blending the ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key when adding ingredients like milk, butter, and spices.
- Mixing Spoons: For stirring the macaroni and cheese together evenly.
- Oven-Safe Baking Dish: To bake the mac and cheese to a golden perfection.
- Grater: Freshly grated sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses elevate the flavor and texture.
Optional Extras
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Parchment Paper | Prevents sticking in the baking dish |
| Aluminum Foil | Covers the dish to retain moisture if needed |
| Kitchen Timer | Keeps track of cooking and baking times |
Having these tools at hand not only streamlines the cooking process but also enhances the overall quality of your homemade mac and cheese. With everything prepared, you’re ready to dive into crafting a dish that rivals the beloved Stouffer’s classic.
Directions
Recreating Stouffer’s Mac and Cheese at home is simpler than you might think. Follow these steps to achieve that rich, creamy texture and comforting flavor.
Prep
- Prepare the Pasta
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
- Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes.
- Drain the pasta using a colander and set aside.
- Measure Ingredients
- Grate 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese.
- Grate ½ cup Parmesan cheese.
- Measure out 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, and 2 cups whole milk.
- Prepare ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon paprika, and ¼ teaspoon mustard powder.
Cook
- Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk, continuing to whisk to prevent lumps.
- Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens and begins to bubble, approximately 5 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Seasonings
- Reduce the heat to low and add the grated sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses to the sauce. Stir until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ¼ teaspoon paprika, and ¼ teaspoon mustard powder. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors.
Assemble
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked elbow macaroni.
- Pour the cheese sauce over the pasta and stir until the macaroni is evenly coated.
- Prepare for Baking (Optional)
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a baking dish lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- For an extra creamy texture and golden top, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar or breadcrumbs over the surface.
- Bake
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Serve
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes to allow the sauce to set.
- Scoop into bowls and enjoy your homemade copycat Stouffer’s Mac and Cheese!
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing Stouffer’s Mac and Cheese ahead of time makes weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how I manage to have this comforting dish ready whenever I crave it:
Preparing for Make-Ahead
- Assemble the Dish
- Follow the recipe steps up to combining the pasta with the cheese sauce.
- Transfer the mixture into a baking dish if you plan to bake it later.
- Cooling
- Allow the mac and cheese to cool completely at room temperature. This prevents excess moisture buildup when storing.
- Storage Options
- Refrigeration
- Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing
- Wrap the dish tightly with two layers of plastic wrap and then a layer of aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating Instructions
| Storage Method | Reheating Method | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Oven | 350°F | 25-30 mins |
| Microwave | Medium | 2-3 mins | |
| Freezer | Thaw in refrigerator overnight before reheating | — | — |
| Oven | 350°F | 45-50 mins | |
| Microwave | Medium | 4-5 mins |
- Oven Reheating
- Preheat your oven to the specified temperature.
- Remove any plastic wrap and cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Heat until the mac and cheese is warmed through and bubbly.
- Microwave Reheating
- Place a portion of mac and cheese in a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover loosely and heat on medium power, stirring halfway through for even heating.
- Direct Freezing
- If you choose to freeze before baking, simply bake from frozen.
- Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats thoroughly.
Tips for Best Results
- Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, ensure the pasta doesn’t become mushy by monitoring the heating time closely.
- Add Fresh Toppings: For a crispy finish, sprinkle additional breadcrumbs or cheese before the final bake.
- Proper Sealing: Ensure your storage containers are airtight to maintain the dish’s creamy texture and prevent freezer burn.
By following these make-ahead instructions, you can enjoy my perfected copycat Stouffer’s Mac and Cheese anytime without the hassle of starting from scratch.
Serving Suggestions
When serving my copycat Stouffer’s Mac and Cheese, I love creating a well-rounded meal that complements the creamy richness of the dish. One of my favorite pairings is a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette. The fresh, tangy flavors balance the macaroni’s creamy texture perfectly.
For a hearty main course, consider adding grilled chicken or roasted vegetables. Grilled chicken breasts seasoned with herbs add a savory protein boost, while roasted broccoli or asparagus brings a delightful crunch and vibrant color to your plate. These additions not only enhance the meal’s nutritional value but also elevate its overall presentation.
To add a touch of elegance, garnish the mac and cheese with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. A dash of smoked paprika or a drizzle of truffle oil can introduce an extra layer of flavor that impresses your guests. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, topping the dish with crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce can provide a satisfying kick.
Finally, consider pairing your mac and cheese with a classic side like garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls. The warm, crusty bread is perfect for sopping up any extra cheese sauce, ensuring every bite is as delicious as the last. Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these serving suggestions will make your homemade mac and cheese the star of the table.
Conclusion
Making my own version of Stouffer’s Mac and Cheese has been such a rewarding experience. There’s something special about crafting a dish that brings comfort and joy to the table. I love how easy it is to prepare and how it always turns out creamy and delicious. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this homemade mac and cheese never fails to impress. Plus having the option to make it ahead of time makes busy weeknights a breeze. I hope you enjoy creating and savoring this comforting classic as much as I do. Happy cooking!
