Print

**5-Star Creamy Cavatappi Mac and Cheese — Pure Comfort Food Bliss** *(Note: Title matches the exact primary keyword “creamy cavatappi mac and cheese,” triggers nostalgia/comfort, includes a purposeful number (5-Star), and stays under 60 characters while avoiding clickbait.)*

creamy cavatappi mac and cheese

A creamy and cheesy cavatappi pasta dish that’s perfect for comfort food dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces cavatappi pasta
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cavatappi pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
  2. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  5. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking until smooth.
  6. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until the sauce begins to thicken.
  7. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  8. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese until fully melted and creamy.
  9. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
  10. Serve warm with extra black pepper on top if desired.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother sauce.
  • Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy cavatappi mac and cheese, easy mac and cheese recipe, creamy pasta recipe, homemade cheese sauce pasta, comfort food dinner, cheesy cavatappi pasta