If you love bold flavors and creamy comfort food, this Cheetos Mac and Cheese recipe is a must-try! Combining the rich creaminess of mac and cheese with the irresistible crunch of Cheetos, this dish is the ultimate treat for adventurous foodies. Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or a fun twist on classic comfort food, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 300g (10 oz) macaroni or penne pasta
- 1 tsp salt (for boiling water)
The Cheese Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra richness)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup Cheetos (cheese flavor or spicy), finely crushed
- Extra Cheetos for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden, creating a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Add the heavy cream for extra creaminess (optional).
- Let the sauce thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan, allowing them to melt into the sauce.
- Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste.
3. Combine the Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until every piece is coated in creamy goodness.
4. Add the Cheetos Crunch:
- Stir in half of the crushed Cheetos for a bold, cheesy flavor boost.
5. Serve and Garnish:
- Transfer the mac and cheese to serving bowls. Sprinkle the remaining crushed Cheetos on top for crunch.
- Garnish with whole Cheetos or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for presentation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavors: The combination of creamy cheese and zesty Cheetos is a flavor explosion.
- Fun and Easy: A simple recipe that’s perfect for casual meals or impressing your friends.
- Customizable: Add grilled chicken, bacon, or veggies for a personal touch.
Healthier Options:
- Use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
- Substitute low-fat milk and cheese for a lighter version.
Q: Can I use different types of Cheetos?
A: Yes, you can use any Cheetos flavor, including Flamin’ Hot for a spicy twist!
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make the dish gluten-free.
Q: Can I bake this dish?
A: Yes! After combining the pasta and cheese sauce, transfer it to a baking dish, top with crushed Cheetos, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes for a golden crust.
Ready to add some crunch to your mac and cheese? Try this Cheetos Mac and Cheese recipe today and share your experience in the comments! Don’t forget to check out more fun recipes on our blog.
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