Spaghetti Mac & Cheese🧀
Ingredients
• 12 oz spaghetti
• 3 tbsp butter
• 3 tbsp flour
• 3 cups milk (whole milk is best)
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella
• 1 cup shredded Colby-Jack or Monterey Jack
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste
• 1 cup grated Parmesan
• Optional add-ins:
• cooked bacon
• ground beef
• shredded chicken
• jalapeños
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Instructions
1. Cook the spaghetti
Boil spaghetti in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the roux
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes until smooth.
3. Make the cheese sauce
Slowly whisk in milk and cream.
Let it thicken (about 5 minutes).
Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt & pepper.
4. Add the cheese
Lower heat. Add cheddar, mozzarella, Colby-Jack, and Parmesan.
Stir until fully melted and creamy.
5. Combine
Add cooked spaghetti to the cheese sauce.
Stir until every strand is coated.
6. Optional baked version
Transfer to a greased baking dish.
Top with extra cheese.
Bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
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Topping ideas
• Buttered breadcrumbs
• Crispy bacon bits
• Extra Parmesan
• Hot honey drizzle
This Spaghetti Mac & Cheese recipe is a wonderful twist on the classic comfort food, combining the beloved creaminess of mac and cheese with the satisfying texture of spaghetti. From my experience, using whole milk and heavy cream creates a rich, velvety cheese sauce that clings beautifully to every strand of pasta. The combination of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, Colby-Jack, and Parmesan offers a depth of flavor — sharp, creamy, and slightly nutty. I recommend paying attention to the roux step: cooking the butter and flour just until smooth and slightly golden ensures your sauce won't taste floury. Slowly adding milk and cream helps prevent lumps and allows the sauce to thicken perfectly. When incorporating the cheeses, lowering the heat is key so they melt gently and the sauce stays creamy. One tip I love is using optional add-ins like cooked bacon or jalapeños for a smoky or spicy kick, making the dish even more versatile. For a cozy, golden finish, baking the mac and cheese after topping with extra cheese or buttered breadcrumbs adds a delightful crunch. A drizzle of hot honey on top can surprise you with a sweet contrast that perfectly complements the savory cheese. Cooking the spaghetti al dente ensures it doesn’t get mushy when combined with the creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or meal prepping since it reheats well. You can also customize the toppings to your preference—crispy bacon bits, extra Parmesan, or even sautéed mushrooms add fantastic textures and flavors. In short, this recipe balances richness and comfort, making it an irresistible homemade meal. The methodical layering of spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika enhances the cheesy base without overpowering it, giving you a well-rounded flavor that’s sure to satisfy both kids and adults alike.
