Kraft Deluxe Macaroni and Cheese Clone
Recreate the ultimate comfort food with this Kraft Deluxe Macaroni and Cheese Clone recipe, a spot-on homemade version of the beloved boxed classic. Featuring tender elbow macaroni smothered in a decadently creamy cheese sauce made from real cheddar, cream cheese, and a hint of Dijon mustard, this dish perfectly balances nostalgia and indulgence. The rich blend of whole milk and heavy cream ensures a velvety texture, while a pinch of paprika adds a subtle depth of flavor. Ready in just 25 minutes, this crave-worthy side—or main dish—is ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Serve it piping hot, and feel free to garnish with extra cheese or a dash of spice for that homemade gourmet touch!
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups whole milk
- 0.5 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
- 0.5 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 0.25 teaspoons paprika
- 0.5 teaspoons salt
- 0.25 teaspoons black pepper
- 8 cups water
Instructions
Bring 8 cups of water to a boil in a large pot. Add a generous pinch of salt.
Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 7-8 minutes, until al dente.
While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is golden and smooth.
Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, ensuring no lumps form. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, cream cheese, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Drain the cooked macaroni and add it to the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
Serve immediately while warm and creamy. Optionally, garnish with extra shredded cheddar or a sprinkle of paprika for presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
447 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 22.4 g | 29% | |
| Saturated Fat | 12.9 g | 64% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 62 mg | 21% | |
| Sodium | 336 mg | 15% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 50.1 g | 18% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.0 g | 7% | |
| Total Sugars | 6.1 g | ||
| Protein | 10.8 g | 22% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.3 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 171 mg | 13% | |
| Iron | 2.0 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 200 mg | 4% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
