costco macaroni and cheese recipe

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The Best costco macaroni and cheese recipe

I’ve been a fan of Costco’s macaroni and cheese recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. The dish is simple yet satisfying, and it’s a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions. I love how the creamy sauce coats the pasta perfectly, and the flavors are well-balanced without being too overpowering.

My kids adore it, and it’s often requested at family gatherings. One of the reasons I appreciate this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make – just cook the pasta, mix in the cheese sauce, and voilà! It’s also a relatively healthy option compared to other comfort foods, thanks to the use of whole wheat pasta and a blend of cheddar and parmesan cheese.

As a busy mom, I appreciate recipes that are quick to prepare and require minimal fuss. This macaroni and cheese recipe fits the bill perfectly. The best part?

It’s ridiculously affordable – a box of pasta costs just a few dollars, and you can easily make multiple servings with minimal extra cost. I’ve experimented with various variations of this recipe over the years, but I always come back to this classic version. It’s just that good!

My family loves when I serve this dish at family gatherings or potlucks, as it’s always a crowd-pleaser. And let’s be honest – who doesn’t love a warm, comforting bowl of macaroni and cheese on a chilly evening? It’s the perfect remedy for those days when you need something comforting but don’t have much time to cook.

Costco Macaroni and Cheese

4.5 from 1290 votes

This creamy and indulgent Costco Macaroni and Cheese recipe is perfect for a comforting meal. It features a rich cheese sauce and tender pasta, making it a family favorite.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb elbow macaroni
4 tbsp butter
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk
8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
8 oz shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
3Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
4Drain the pasta and set it aside.
5In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
6Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden color.
7This is called a roux and will thicken the sauce.
8Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
9Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
10Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the skillet, stirring until they are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
11Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
12Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
13Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a baking dish.
14Bake the macaroni and cheese in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
15If desired, sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
16Remove the macaroni and cheese from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
17This allows the cheese to set and makes it easier to serve.
18Enjoy your homemade Costco Macaroni and Cheese!

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Whisk
Wooden spoon
Baking dish

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option. You can also add cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach to the macaroni and cheese for added nutrition.

Watch Video Of How Costco Macaroni and Cheese Works

This recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or need a quick meal for your kids after school. One of my favorite storage ideas is to portion out individual servings into containers or ziplock bags so everyone can grab what they want without having to reheat the entire dish.

When reheating leftovers, be sure to add some extra milk or cream if you prefer an even creamier consistency. For special occasions like holidays or birthdays, consider making individual servings in ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets for an adorable presentation.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Costco Macaroni and Cheese

Q: What type of pasta is used in Costco’s macaroni and cheese recipe?

The recipe calls for cavatappi pasta, which is a type of spiral-shaped pasta that pairs well with the creamy cheese sauce.

Q: Can I use other types of pasta instead of cavatappi?

While you can experiment with other pasta shapes, cavatappi is specifically designed to hold onto the cheese sauce perfectly.

Q: How do I reheat leftover macaroni and cheese?

You can reheat leftover macaroni and cheese in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Q: Can I freeze this recipe for later?

Yes, you can freeze cooked macaroni and cheese for up to 3 months.

Q: What if I don’t have any cavatappi pasta on hand?

You can substitute another type of pasta in an emergency situation, but keep in mind that the texture may not be as ideal.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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