Ultra Creamy Spaghetti Mac and Cheese (Better Than Boxed!)
If you’ve ever stood in your kitchen torn between making a classic mac and cheese or a quick spaghetti dinner, this recipe is your new best friend. Spaghetti Mac and Cheese brings together the nostalgic, creamy comfort of traditional mac with the long, slurp-worthy strands of spaghetti, and yes, it’s as dreamy as it sounds.
I stumbled on this idea one hectic Tuesday night when elbow pasta was nowhere to be found, and all I had was a half box of spaghetti. One bite later, I knew this wasn’t just a backup plan, it was a comfort food revelation.
This dish is everything you love about mac and cheese, rich, velvety cheese sauce, easy prep, and ultimate cozy vibes, but with an unexpected twist that makes it feel fresh and fun. Whether you’re feeding picky kids, craving something indulgent, or just want to switch things up from the boxed stuff, this ultra creamy spaghetti mac and cheese is about to become a household favorite.
Let’s dive into why this cheesy mashup works so well, and how you can make it tonight, with pantry staples you already have on hand.
Table of Contents
💛 Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti Mac and Cheese
There’s comfort food, and then there’s next-level comfort food, and this spaghetti mac and cheese recipe is definitely the latter. Here’s why this cheesy mashup deserves a permanent spot on your dinner rotation:
✔️ It’s Ultra Creamy and Cheesy
Think of your favorite mac and cheese, now imagine it with even more melt-in-your-mouth sauce coating every strand of spaghetti. The long noodles soak up that cheesy goodness in all the right ways, creating a texture that’s rich, velvety, and totally craveable.
✔️ It’s an Easy Weeknight Win
Made with simple pantry staples like pasta, cheese, milk, and butter, this dish comes together quickly with minimal fuss. Whether you’re juggling homework help or just don’t feel like cooking anything fancy, this recipe has your back.
✔️ It’s a Kid-Approved Crowd-Pleaser
Kids love mac and cheese. Kids love spaghetti. So it’s no surprise that spaghetti mac and cheese is a home run with even the pickiest eaters. And honestly? Adults love it just as much.
✔️ It’s Versatile and Customizable
Want to stir in crispy bacon? Go for it. Add a dash of hot sauce? Yes, please. Toss in some broccoli or spinach to sneak in veggies? Totally doable. This recipe is your blank canvas for all kinds of comfort food creativity.
✔️ It’s Way Better Than Boxed
No offense to the boxed stuff, but once you try this homemade version, with real cheese and a luscious sauce, there’s no going back. It’s fast, easy, and tastes infinitely better.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need
This spaghetti mac and cheese is built on simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have stocked in your kitchen. Here’s everything you need to make it ultra creamy, cheesy, and totally comforting:
🍝 The Pasta
- Spaghetti – The key twist in this recipe. You can use regular, whole wheat, or gluten-free spaghetti depending on your dietary needs. Long strands hold the cheese sauce beautifully and add a fun texture twist to traditional mac and cheese.
🧈 The Sauce Base
- Butter – For richness and to help start the roux (your creamy sauce base).
- All-purpose flour – Just enough to thicken the sauce without making it heavy.
- Milk – Whole milk makes the sauce rich, but you can also use 2% or dairy-free options like oat or almond milk.
- Heavy cream (optional) – For an extra luxurious texture. Swap for more milk if you prefer it lighter.
💡 Pro tip: Warm your milk before adding it to the roux for a smoother sauce.
🧀 The Cheese Blend
- Sharp cheddar – Brings bold, classic mac and cheese flavor.
- Mozzarella – Adds meltiness and that signature cheese pull.
- Parmesan (optional) – Offers a savory depth and nutty finish.
🔄 Variation Tip: You can experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Fontina, or even dairy-free cheese alternatives.
🧂 Flavor Enhancers
- Salt + pepper – Always to taste.
- Garlic powder – A touch of savory warmth.
- Mustard powder (optional) – Enhances the cheese flavor subtly, without tasting like mustard.
🌱 Optional Add-ins & Toppings
Want to customize your spaghetti mac and cheese? Try adding:
- Breadcrumbs – For a golden, crispy baked topping.
- Chopped parsley or green onions – Freshness and color in every bite.
- Steamed broccoli or spinach – A great way to add in some veggies.
👩🍳 How to Make Spaghetti Mac and Cheese (Step-by-Step)
This recipe is as simple as it is satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or adding it to your comfort food rotation, you’ll love how easy and adaptable it is.
Here’s how to make ultra creamy spaghetti mac and cheese from scratch:
Step 1: Cook the Spaghetti
- Start by filling a big pot with water, seasoning it with salt, and heating it until it reaches a steady boil.
- Cook spaghetti noodles according to the package directions until al dente (firm to the bite).
- Drain the pasta and set aside. (Tip: reserve ½ cup of the pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.)
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce (Roux-Based)
- In the same pot (or a separate large saucepan), melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour to form a paste (this is your roux). Stir continuously for about 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste.
- Slowly pour in milk (and cream if using), whisking constantly until smooth.
- Continue to cook over medium heat, whisking, until the sauce thickens slightly, this takes about 4–5 minutes.
Step 3: Stir in the Cheese
- Lower the heat to low.
- Gradually stir in your shredded cheddar and mozzarella (and optional parmesan), a handful at a time.
- Stir until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t let the sauce boil after adding cheese, it can cause it to become grainy. Gentle heat is your friend here.
Step 4: Combine with Spaghetti
- Add the drained spaghetti noodles to the cheese sauce.
- Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated and glossy with cheesy goodness.
- If the cheese sauce gets a little too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water to smooth it out.
Optional: Make It Baked
If you want a crispy, golden topping:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spoon the cheesy pasta mixture into a lightly greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Top with breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of cheese.
- Place it in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
💡 Pro Tips for the Creamiest, Dreamiest Spaghetti Mac and Cheese
Want that ultra-luxurious, restaurant-quality texture? These expert tips will help you get that perfectly smooth, rich cheese sauce every single time, no clumps, no curdles, just cheesy perfection.
🔥 1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta
Cook your spaghetti just until al dente, this means firm but not hard. It’ll absorb some of the cheese sauce as it sits, so overcooking can make it too soft and mushy later.
🥄 2. Start with a Roux for Stability
Making a simple roux (butter + flour) before adding your milk helps thicken the sauce evenly and prevents it from separating. This is the secret to that classic mac and cheese creaminess.
🧀 3. Use a Blend of Cheeses for Best Texture & Flavor
Cheddar is great on its own, but pairing it with melty cheeses like mozzarella gives you that smooth, gooey stretch. Adding a little parmesan amps up the flavor without overpowering the sauce.
👀 Want to experiment? Try Fontina, Havarti, or Monterey Jack, just avoid pre-shredded cheese (it contains anti-caking agents that affect meltability).
🌡️ 4. Keep the Heat Low When Adding Cheese
High heat can cause your cheese to get grainy or oily. Once your sauce base is ready, lower the heat to low and gently stir in your cheese until just melted and silky smooth.
💧 5. Reserve Pasta Water to Adjust Consistency
That starchy pasta water you saved? It’s liquid gold. If your sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash to thin it out while keeping things creamy
🧂 6. Season Smart
Salt and pepper are a given, but a dash of garlic powder or mustard powder (trust us) can make your cheese sauce pop without being obvious. Taste as you go!
🍲 7. Make It Your Own (Without Overcomplicating)
This recipe is endlessly flexible. Add in steamed veggies like broccoli, fold in sautéed mushrooms, or top with gluten-free breadcrumbs if you’re baking it. You can even make it dairy-free with vegan cheese and plant-based milk.
🔄 Variations & Customizations
The beauty of spaghetti mac and cheese is how versatile it is. You can keep it classic and comforting or get creative with flavor-packed upgrades. Here are some fun and delicious ways to make this dish your own, without losing that creamy, cheesy goodness everyone loves.
🍲 1. One-Pot Version (Fewer Dishes, Same Comfort)
Short on time? Skip transferring to a baking dish, just stir everything together in your cooking pot and serve right away. It saves on cleanup and keeps things cozy and creamy.
🔄 2. Go Gluten-Free
Swap traditional spaghetti for a gluten-free version (like brown rice or chickpea-based pasta) and use gluten-free flour for the roux. The texture stays just as dreamy, and no one will miss a thing.
🧀 3. Try a Different Cheese Blend
Looking to switch up the flavor? Try combos like:
- Fontina + mozzarella for a mild, melty twist
- Colby Jack + cheddar for extra richness
- Vegan cheese alternatives for a plant-based version
Just avoid cheeses that don’t melt well on their own (like feta or fresh goat cheese), unless blended with more meltable varieties.
🥦 4. Add in Veggies (No Complaints from the Kids!)
This dish is a great canvas for sneaky nutrition. Stir in:
- Steamed broccoli florets
- Baby spinach (it wilts right into the sauce!)
- Roasted cauliflower or zucchini
They blend in beautifully and bring balance to the cheesy richness.
🔥 5. Spice It Up
If you like a little heat, try adding:
- A pinch of chili flakes
- A dash of hot sauce stirred into the cheese sauce
- A sprinkle of smoked paprika on top before baking
This adds depth without overpowering the comforting base.
🥬 6. Herb It Up
Fresh herbs can make a big difference. Top with chopped:
- Parsley – for brightness
- Chives or green onions – for a subtle bite
- Thyme or basil – if you’re feeling fancy
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Spaghetti mac and cheese is rich, comforting, and satisfying all on its own, but if you want to build it out into a full meal or elevate the experience just a little, here are some easy and delicious ideas for what to serve alongside it.
🥗 Light & Fresh Sides (Balance is Everything)
Because this dish is super creamy and cheesy, pairing it with something crisp and fresh creates the perfect contrast.
- Simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette
- Cucumber and tomato salad with olive oil and herbs
- Steamed or roasted green beans with a pinch of sea salt
🍞 Comfort Food Pairings (When You Want to Go All In)
Sometimes, more comfort is exactly what the moment calls for. Try:
- Garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls to mop up that cheesy sauce
- Roasted sweet potatoes for a sweet-savory combo
- Corn on the cob, a kid-friendly side that’s just plain fun
🥤 What to Drink With It
- Unsweetened iced tea – refreshing and classic
- Dairy-free milk or oat milk – great for kids or anyone with sensitivities
🍽️ Make It a Meal for Entertaining
Hosting a casual dinner? Serve it buffet-style with:
- A couple of veggie sides
- Toppings bar (parmesan, herbs, extra sauce)
- A simple dessert (think brownies or fruit salad)
It’s low effort, crowd-pleasing, and guaranteed to disappear fast.
🧊 Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips
Made a big batch of spaghetti mac and cheese (because, let’s be honest, you should)? No worries. This dish stores like a champ and reheats beautifully with just a few simple tricks.
🧺 How to Store Leftovers
- Refrigerator: Let the mac and cheese cool completely before storing. Store any leftovers in a sealed container and keep them in the fridge for up to four days.
- Portion tip: Divide into single servings for easy grab-and-reheat lunches.
❄️ Can You Freeze It?
Yes! You can absolutely freeze spaghetti mac and cheese, just be sure to follow these tips for best results:
- Let it cool completely before freezing.
- Store in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag (remove excess air).
- Add a date label and aim to enjoy it within two months for the freshest flavor and texture.
🔁 Best Ways to Reheat
Nobody wants dry or rubbery leftovers. Here’s how to reheat spaghetti mac and cheese so it tastes just as creamy and delicious the second time around:
🍽️ Stovetop (Best Method)
- Add a splash of milk or broth to a pan.
- Warm the pasta over low heat, stirring frequently.
- Add a little extra cheese if needed to revive the sauce.
🔥 Microwave (Quick Option)
- Place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Stir in a tablespoon of milk.
- Cover loosely and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use spaghetti instead of elbow macaroni for mac and cheese?
Absolutely! That’s the heart of this recipe. Spaghetti soaks up cheese sauce beautifully and gives you a fun, slurpable twist on the classic. It’s perfect for when you want mac and cheese but only have spaghetti noodles on hand.
What’s the best cheese to use for creamy spaghetti mac and cheese?
A mix of sharp cheddar and mozzarella gives you the best balance, flavorful and melty. You can also add parmesan for depth or experiment with Monterey Jack, Fontina, or dairy-free alternatives.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use your favorite unsweetened plant-based milk (like oat or almond) and swap in vegan butter and cheese. Look for dairy-free cheese that melts well (many are labeled specifically for that).
How do I keep the sauce from getting grainy?
The key is to lower the heat before adding cheese and stir gently. Also, use freshly shredded cheese if possible, pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that affect the texture when melted.
Can I bake this recipe?
Definitely! After combining the spaghetti and cheese sauce, transfer it to a greased baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs and a little extra cheese on top, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–20 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
Can I freeze leftover spaghetti mac and cheese?
You can! Let it cool completely, store it in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creaminess.
Spaghetti Mac and Cheese (Better Than Boxed!)
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot For boiling spaghetti
- 1 Saucepan For making the cheese sauce
- 1 Whisk Helps make a smooth sauce
- 1 Baking dish (optional) If baking the mac and cheese
Ingredients
- Pasta & Sauce Base:
- 8 oz – Spaghetti – Cooked to al dente
- 2 tbsp – Butter
- 2 tbsp – All-purpose flour
- 2 cups – Milk – Warmed
- ½ cup – Heavy cream – Optional for extra creaminess
- Salt and pepper – To taste
- Cheese Blend:
- 1 ½ cups – Sharp cheddar cheese – Shredded
- ½ cup – Mozzarella cheese – Shredded
- ¼ cup – Parmesan cheese – Optional for added flavor
- Flavor Add-Ins:
- ½ tsp – Garlic powder
- ¼ tsp – Mustard powder – Optional
- Optional Toppings:
- ¼ cup – Breadcrumbs – For baked version
- 1 tbsp – Chopped parsley – For garnish
Instructions
- Boil the Spaghetti
- Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.
- Make the Roux
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and stir constantly for about 1 minute.
- Add Milk and Cream
- Gradually whisk in warm milk and cream. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens, about 4–5 minutes.
- Stir in Cheese
- Lower heat and slowly stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and optional parmesan until melted and smooth.
- Season
- Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder. Taste and adjust as needed.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add cooked spaghetti to the cheese sauce. Toss until evenly coated. Add a splash of pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Optional Baked Version
- Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with parsley or green onions and serve hot!
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the creamiest texture.
- Gluten-free pasta and flour can be used to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
🥄 Final Thoughts
If you’ve been looking for a fun way to level up your comfort food game, this ultra creamy spaghetti mac and cheese is the answer. It’s everything you love about the classic dish, rich, cheesy, cozy, but with an unexpected twist that makes it feel fresh and totally craveable.
Whether you serve it straight from the stovetop, bake it for a crispy golden finish, or customize it with your favorite mix-ins, this recipe is all about simplicity, flavor, and flexibility.
So the next time you’re short on elbow pasta but craving something cheesy and comforting, remember: spaghetti is more than up to the task.
Got questions or tried a variation you loved? Drop a comment below or tag us on social, nothing makes us happier than seeing your cheesy creations in action! 💛
🍝 Craving More Cheesy Pasta Comfort?
If this spaghetti mac and cheese hit the spot, you’re going to love these other cozy, carb-loaded favorites from the blog:
- 🍝 Cheesecake Factory Spaghetti and Meatballs – A classic Italian-American dish with bold flavor and a restaurant-style finish.
- 🧀 Baked Spaghetti Fazoli’s Recipe – The ultimate cheesy, oven-baked comfort food with layers of pasta and sauce.
- 🌶️ Jerk Chicken Pasta Recipe – A spicy, creamy twist for when you’re craving something bold and unique.
- 🥬 Hearts of Palm Pasta Recipes – A lighter, low-carb option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- 🍲 Cheeseburger Macaroni Soup – A creamy, savory blend of soup, pasta, and cheese that’s pure comfort in a bowl.
Looking for even more? Head over to DeenRecipes.com and explore all our reader-favorite pastas, casseroles, and weeknight dinner ideas.
