Macaroni and cheese is one of the most beloved comfort foods around the world. The creamy cheese and tender pasta combine for a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re a busy parent, a college student, or someone simply looking for a quick meal, frozen mac and cheese options have become a go-to solution for many. With so many choices available, how do you decide on the best one?
In this article, we’ll compare frozen mac and cheese options, discuss how to enhance their flavor, and provide an incredible homemade recipe that outshines store-bought versions. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Recipe Card
Recipe name: Freezer Mac and Cheese
Description: This freezer mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food for busy families. Made with a creamy, cheesy sauce and tender pasta, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for make-ahead meals. Kids and adults will adore this delicious dish that’s as versatile as it is satisfying.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 8
- Calories: 501
Ingredients
White Sauce Base:
- ¼ cup cornstarch
- ¼ cup butter
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Macaroni and Cheese:
- 8 oz dried macaroni pasta
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup Colby cheese, shredded
- 1 cup extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Prepare the White Sauce:
- Begin by melting the butter in a medium saucepan set over medium heat. Whisk in the cornstarch and cook for 2–3 minutes until foamy.
- Add chicken broth and whisk until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. Cook macaroni for 5–6 minutes until slightly undercooked. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Mix the white sauce, cream, Colby, and cheddar cheese in a large bowl until smooth. Stir in the pasta.
- Bake or Freeze:
- Transfer to a 9×9-inch baking dish. For immediate baking, preheat the oven to 375°F and bake for 30–35 minutes.
- To freeze, cool completely, wrap tightly, and store for up to 2 months.
Notes
- Undercook the pasta slightly to maintain texture when reheated.
- Freeze in individual ramekins for single servings.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1g
- Calories: 501
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Protein: 13g
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Cholesterol: 127mg
- Sodium: 478mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Time-Saving: Perfect for make-ahead meals or quick dinners.
- Kid-Friendly: A hit with children and adults alike.
- Customizable: Easily adapt to include different cheeses or spices.
- Budget-Friendly: Homemade is cheaper than premium frozen mac and cheese brands.
- No Preservatives: A healthier alternative to store-bought versions.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Cheese Choices
- Colby Jack and Sharp Cheddar are the stars of this recipe. They create a creamy and flavorful base that outshines even the best frozen mac and cheese options.
- Alternatives: Use mozzarella for a stretchy texture or Gruyère for a nutty flavor.
Pasta
- Traditional elbow macaroni is ideal, but shells or cavatappi work well too.
Heavy Cream
- Adds richness to the sauce. Milk can be substituted for a lighter version, though the creaminess will be reduced.
How to Make Frozen Mac and Cheese (step-by-step)
Making your own frozen mac and cheese at home is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps to achieve a creamy, cheesy masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you decide to bake it right away or freeze it for later, this recipe ensures a dish that competes with the finest store-bought options. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Prepare the White Sauce
The key to a smooth, creamy sauce starts with a solid white sauce base. Begin by melting the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. This will gently melt the butter and prepare the pan for the upcoming steps. Once the butter is fully melted, sprinkle in the cornstarch and whisk continuously for about 2–3 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. Be sure to keep an eye on the heat to prevent the sauce from browning.
Next, slowly add the chicken broth, whisking constantly to ensure no lumps form. Let the sauce cook for 3–4 minutes until it thickens and starts to simmer. This step creates the velvety base that sets your frozen mac and cheese apart from the rest. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set the sauce aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
For the perfect texture, undercook your pasta slightly. Boil 8 ounces of dried macaroni in salted water for about 5–6 minutes. The pasta should be tender but still have a firm bite—this ensures it won’t turn mushy when baked or reheated later. Drain the pasta and rinse it with cold water to halt the cooking process. This step is essential for maintaining the integrity of the pasta in your frozen mac and cheese.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring everything together. In a large bowl, mix the cooled white sauce with 2 cups of heavy whipping cream. Gradually add the shredded Colby cheese and sharp cheddar cheese, stirring until the mixture is smooth and the cheese is fully melted. The result is a rich, cheesy sauce that clings perfectly to every piece of macaroni.
Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce, gently folding everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. This is where your homemade frozen mac and cheese begins to take shape, with every bite promising maximum cheesiness.
Step 4: Bake or Freeze
If You’re Baking Right Away:
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish. For extra indulgence, sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Allow the dish to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
If You’re Freezing for Later:
Allow the cheese sauce to cool completely before assembling. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a freezer-safe baking dish. Press a sheet of plastic wrap tightly over the surface, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and label it with the date. Your homemade frozen mac and cheese is now ready to be stored for up to 2 months.
Step 5: Reheat and Enjoy
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen mac and cheese, thaw it in the refrigerator for about 24 hours. Remove the foil and plastic wrap, then bake it in a preheated 375°F oven for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbly. If you don’t have time to thaw, simply bake it from frozen—just allow an extra 20–30 minutes of cooking time.
Expert Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercooked pasta will maintain its texture during baking or reheating.
- Cool Sauce Before Freezing: This prevents the sauce from separating during storage.
- Layer the Cheese: Adding extra cheese on top before baking creates a satisfying crust.
Variations and Customizations
- 3 Cheese Mac and Cheese: Add Parmesan or Gouda for extra depth.
- Spicy Version: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigeration: Store your leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: For best results, thaw frozen mac and cheese in the refrigerator for 24 hours before baking.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with:
- A crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Garlic bread for an indulgent meal.
- Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the top cheeses to use for mac and cheese?
For this recipe, Colby Jack and sharp cheddar create the creamiest and most flavorful mac and cheese.
How long can freezer mac and cheese stay in the freezer?
Feel free to freeze this mac and cheese for up to 2 months! Ensure you remove air with plastic wrap and cover with foil for best results.
Related Recipes
If you love making frozen mac and cheese, here are a few more comforting and cheesy recipes you might enjoy:
- World’s Best Mac and Cheese (Costco Copycat): A premium baked version with a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
- Macaroni and Cheese Seattle-Style: Featuring creamy Dungeness crab for a Pacific Northwest twist.
Conclusion
Whether you’re exploring store-bought options or making it from scratch, frozen mac and cheese is a versatile dish that satisfies every craving. By using quality ingredients like Colby Jack and sharp cheddar, you can create a homemade version that rivals even the best frozen mac and cheese brands. Try this recipe for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal, and enjoy the cheesy goodness!