Classic American Mac 'n Cheese with a Twist

A deliciously creamy mac 'n cheese, elevated with a subtle garlic twist that adds depth to this classic comfort dish.

⏱️ Cooking Time: 20 minutes | 🍽️ Servings: 1

Instructions

1. 1.
   Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 cup of elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside. It's essential to prepare the pasta al dente to ensure it holds its shape and texture when mixed with the sauce.
2. 2.
   In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once fully melted and sizzling slightly, add 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds. This will allow the garlic powder to bloom and infuse the butter with flavor. Be careful not to burn the butter by keeping the heat at medium.
3. 3.
   Reduce the heat to low and pour in 1/4 cup of heavy cream. Stir occasionally and heat until the cream is gently steaming, but not boiling. It's crucial to avoid high heat here, as it can cause the cream to separate. If it starts to boil, remove it from heat to cool slightly before proceeding.
4. 4.
   Gradually add 1 1/4 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the cream mixture, stirring constantly. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, a splash of milk can be added to achieve the desired consistency.
5. 5.
   Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring an even coating on all pasta pieces. Serve immediately while hot and creamy. If the sauce appears too thick after combining, gently rewarm on low heat, stirring to return to a smooth texture. Enjoy your creamy, garlic-infused mac 'n cheese with a twist!