Description
This Boston Market Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a rich, creamy, and cheesy comfort food classic made with a blend of American, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses combined with perfectly cooked rotini pasta. The cheese sauce is seasoned with mustard powder, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika, then finished with a smooth and velvety texture using half & half and butter. Ideal for a hearty family meal or cozy dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Sauce Ingredients
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp mustard powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 oz deli-sliced American cheese
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 cups half & half
Pasta
- 1 lb rotini pasta
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook until al dente, typically about 8–10 minutes depending on the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Make the roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the all-purpose flour until it forms a smooth paste, cooking for about 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add the liquids and spices: Slowly whisk in the half & half, continuing to whisk constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in mustard powder, garlic powder, black pepper, paprika, and salt. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly, around 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Melt the American cheese: Add the deli-sliced American cheese in batches, stirring continuously until fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate cheddar and Parmesan: Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir well until the cheeses are completely melted and the sauce is homogeneous.
- Combine pasta and cheese sauce: Add the cooked rotini pasta to the cheese sauce. Gently stir to coat every piece evenly with the sauce.
- Serve hot: Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish and enjoy immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste if you prefer a spicier or milder mac and cheese.
- For extra creaminess, you can add a splash more half & half or a dollop of cream cheese.
- This recipe is best served immediately but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Ensure to whisk constantly when adding the half & half to prevent lumps in the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Boston Market Mac and Cheese, creamy mac and cheese, rotini pasta cheese sauce, homemade mac and cheese recipe
