Kamil Perry
Velveeta macaroni and cheese is a classic comfort food that's easy to make and perfect for any occasion. It's a creamy, cheesy dish that can be made on the stovetop or baked in the oven, and it's a great base recipe to experiment with. You can add different types of cheese, spices, meats, or vegetables to make it your own. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious, indulgent meal that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Dish | Main course or side dish |
| Ingredients | Velveeta, milk, butter, flour, elbow macaroni, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Ritz crackers |
| Toppings | Butter, cracker crumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, Pepperjack cheese, American cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, panko breadcrumbs, crispy bacon bits, baked ham, crushed potato chips |
| Equipment | Oven, stovetop, saucepan, microwave, baking dish |
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 20 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
| Calories | 321-442 kcal |
| Storage | Store in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days, or freeze for 1-2 months |
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What You'll Learn
Preparing the pasta
To start, you will need to choose the type of pasta you want to use. Elbow macaroni is a popular choice for this dish, but other types such as shells or penne can also be used. The amount of pasta you need may vary depending on the recipe and your preference. Some recipes call for 2 cups of cooked elbow macaroni, while others suggest using 3 to 4 cups.
Once you have selected the type and amount of pasta, it's time to cook it. Follow the instructions on the pasta packaging for the best results. In general, you will need to bring a pot of water to a boil and then add the pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, aiming for an "al dente" texture. It is important not to overcook the pasta at this stage, as it will continue to cook later in the oven.
After the pasta is cooked to your desired level of doneness, drain it well. Return the drained pasta to the pot or a large mixing bowl. At this point, you can add a small amount of butter or oil to the pasta to prevent it from sticking together. However, this step is optional and can be omitted if you plan to immediately proceed with the next steps.
Now that the pasta is cooked and drained, it is ready to be combined with the cheese sauce and other ingredients to create the signature Velveeta macaroni and cheese dish.
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Making the sauce
Velveeta macaroni and cheese is a popular dish that can be made in a variety of ways. The key to making a delicious sauce is to combine Velveeta with other cheeses, milk, and seasonings. Here is a step-by-step guide to making the sauce:
Ingredients
First, gather your ingredients. The exact measurements may vary depending on your personal preference and the number of servings, but the key ingredients for the sauce are:
- Velveeta cheese
- Milk
- Butter
- Flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Additional seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika (optional)
Preparation
Start by cutting the Velveeta into cubes to ensure even melting. In a separate saucepan, heat the milk until hot. You can also add butter to create a roux base for your sauce. A roux is made by stirring flour into melted butter, creating a thickening agent for your sauce.
Once the milk is hot, add in the Velveeta cubes and any additional shredded cheeses, such as cheddar. The combination of cheeses adds depth of flavour to the sauce. Whisk the mixture together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
At this point, you can also add in any desired seasonings. A pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika can enhance the flavour of your sauce. Continue whisking and heating the mixture until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is well combined.
Combining the Sauce and Pasta
Once your sauce is ready, it's time to combine it with the cooked pasta. Drain your cooked pasta and return it to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Pour the sauce over the hot macaroni and stir until well blended. Ensure that all the pasta is coated evenly with the sauce.
At this stage, you can also add in any mix-ins or extras, such as bacon, ham, vegetables, or different types of cheese. Adjust the consistency of the sauce by adding a little milk if it becomes too thick.
Finally, transfer the saucy macaroni to a prepared baking dish if you plan to bake it further, or serve it immediately if you prefer a stovetop version.
Feel free to adjust the recipe to your taste and get creative with your add-ins! Enjoy your homemade Velveeta macaroni and cheese!
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Combining the pasta and sauce
Once the pasta and sauce are ready, they can be combined in a baking dish. First, the cooked pasta should be placed back into the pot or a large bowl. Then, the sauce can be poured over the pasta. Using a spoon or spatula, stir the pasta and sauce together until the pasta is completely coated in the cheese sauce.
It is important to ensure that the pasta is well-coated to achieve the desired creamy and cheesy consistency. The amount of sauce may need to be adjusted depending on the amount of pasta used, and additional milk can be added to adjust the consistency if needed. The pasta and sauce should be gently stirred together to avoid breaking up the pasta.
After combining the pasta and sauce, the mixture can be transferred to a baking dish. At this point, additional toppings can be added, such as shredded cheddar cheese, cracker crumbs, or butter. The baking dish is then placed in the oven to bake until heated through, typically for around 20 minutes.
The result is a creamy and cheesy Velveeta macaroni and cheese. This dish can be served as a main course or side dish and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Baking the dish
Baking your Velveeta mac and cheese is a great way to elevate the dish and add some extra texture. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving the perfect baked Velveeta macaroni and cheese:
Prepare the Pasta
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. You can use elbow macaroni, shells, or even penne if you don't have enough macaroni. Be sure to cook the pasta until it is almost done, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the pasta well and set it aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
In a separate saucepan, create a roux by melting butter and stirring in flour. Then, add milk, salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you desire, such as garlic and onion powder, or smoked paprika. Heat this mixture until it is hot. Next, add in your Velveeta and shredded cheddar cheese. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth and creamy cheese sauce. You can also add in some extra milk at this stage if you prefer a thinner consistency.
Combine and Bake
Now, it's time to combine the pasta and cheese sauce. Stir the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until it is completely coated. Transfer this mixture to a greased oven-safe baking dish. At this point, you can also add some toppings, such as shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled crackers, or crispy bacon bits, for some extra flavour and texture.
Bake your mac and cheese in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes, or until it is heated through and the top is golden brown. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your baking dish, so keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn't overcook.
Serving and Storage
Once your Velveeta mac and cheese is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish can be served as a main course or a side dish. If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 5 days. To reheat, simply add a dash of milk or cream and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
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Storing leftovers
When you're ready to eat your leftovers, you can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a dash of milk or cream to the mac and cheese before reheating to keep it creamy. If you're reheating in the microwave, you might need to add a little more milk to loosen the dish after heating. If you're using the stovetop, warm the leftovers in a saucepan covered with a lid for 8-10 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need milk, Velveeta, salt, and pepper. You can also add in shredded cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, Pepperjack cheese, American cheese, or sharp cheddar cheese.
This depends on how many people you are serving. For a crowd, you can use 3-4 cups of elbow macaroni.
First, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Then, drain the pasta and set it aside. In a saucepan, add milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Heat until hot. Next, add in Velveeta and shredded cheddar, if using. Whisk together until smooth and creamy. Finally, remove from heat and add the cooked pasta.
You can store leftover macaroni and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 5 days. It can also be frozen for 1-2 months.
