Stouffer's Macaroni Cheese Copycat

Recreate the creamy, nostalgic comfort of everyone's favorite frozen classic with this Stouffer's Macaroni and Cheese Copycat recipe. Perfectly al dente elbow macaroni is smothered in a velvety, homemade cheese sauce made from a decadent blend of sharp cheddar and creamy American cheese, enriched with whole milk and heavy cream. A touch of mustard powder and white pepper adds a subtle depth of flavor, while a light sprinkle of paprika (optional) brings a pop of color to the golden, bubbly topping after baking. Ready in just 40 minutes, this crowd-pleasing dish is a quick and indulgent way to bring Stouffer's-style magic to your dinner table—no freezer required! Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or a side, it’s sure to evoke smiles and second helpings.

Nutriscore Rating: 50/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:40 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 8 ounces Elbow macaroni
• 2 cups Whole milk
• 1 cup Heavy cream
• 2 cups Cheddar cheese, sharp, shredded
• 1 cup American cheese, shredded or diced
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons All-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 0.5 teaspoon Ground white pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon Ground mustard powder
• 0.25 teaspoon Paprika (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni for 1 minute less than the package instructions for al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes, whisking constantly, until the mixture turns light golden and no raw flour scent remains.

Step 3

Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, ensuring a smooth consistency. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly (about 3–4 minutes).

Step 4

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and American cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 5

Season the sauce with salt, ground white pepper, and mustard powder. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6

Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and gently fold to evenly coat the pasta in the cheese sauce.

Step 7

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to an oven-safe baking dish.

Step 8

Optional: Sprinkle a light coating of paprika over the top for added color and flavor.

Step 9

Bake the macaroni and cheese uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and lightly golden.

Step 10

Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy and irresistible Stouffer's-inspired macaroni and cheese!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1342.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3551.9

Total Fat 232.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 141.5g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.5g
Cholesterol 708.6mg	0%
Sodium 5941.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 221.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 9.4g	0%
Total Sugars 35.7g
Protein 126.5g	0%

Vitamin D 286.7IU	0%
Calcium 2849.2mg	0%
Iron 10.8mg	0%
Potassium 1241.1mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 60.0%

Protein: 14.5%

Carbs: 25.5%