Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with a delightful twist on a classic favorite! This Ranch Mac and Cheese is not just your ordinary cheesy pasta; it's a creamy, flavorful explosion that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. With just a handful of ingredients and a quick 30-minute prep, you can whip up this scrumptious dish that serves four—perfect for a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends. Trust us, once you taste this cheesy goodness, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add the elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare a large mixing bowl. Add the ranch dressing, shredded mozzarella cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander, reserving about 1/4 cup of pasta water. Immediately transfer the hot pasta to the mixing bowl with the cheese and ranch mixture.
- Stir the pasta thoroughly to combine all ingredients, ensuring the cheese melts and coats the pasta evenly. If the mixture seems too thick, add a small amount of the reserved pasta water to create a creamy consistency.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well to distribute the seasonings.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to fully melt and the flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the elbow macaroni until it’s al dente. This ensures the pasta holds its shape and texture when mixed with the creamy sauce.
- Cheese Choices: While mozzarella and Parmesan are fantastic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a kick of flavor.
- Creamy Consistency: If the mixture feels too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of the reserved pasta water. This helps create that luscious, creamy texture.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding cooked bacon, diced tomatoes, or even some sautéed vegetables to the mix.
- Resting Time: Letting the mac and cheese sit for a few minutes after mixing allows the cheese to melt perfectly and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Garnish: Elevate your dish by garnishing with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 55mg
