If you are craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Million Dollar Mac & Cheese Recipe. This dish takes classic mac and cheese to extravagant heights by combining creamy cheeses, tangy sour cream, and savory Ragu cheese sauce, yielding a rich and luscious experience. It’s the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection, guaranteed to impress family and friends at your next gathering or simply turn an ordinary dinner into something spectacular.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Million Dollar Mac & Cheese Recipe lies in its simple ingredients that come together effortlessly to create an unforgettable flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s the pasta that provides the comforting base or the variety of cheeses and sour cream that deliver the creamy, dreamy consistency and tangy depth.
- Elbow macaroni (16 oz): The classic pasta shape that holds onto the cheese sauce perfectly, making every bite deliciously cheesy.
- Ragu cheese sauce (16 oz jar): Adds a rich tomato-cheese flavor that elevates this dish beyond ordinary mac and cheese.
- Cottage cheese (1 cup): Brings a slight tang and creamy texture that balances the richness of the other cheeses.
- Cream cheese, softened (8 oz): Adds a velvety smoothness and helps bind the ingredients evenly.
- Sour cream (¼ cup): Enhances the creaminess and gives a subtle tartness for depth.
- Dried parsley (1 Tbsp): Offers a fresh herbal note and lovely pops of green color.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): The star cheese for sharpness, gooey meltiness, and that irresistible golden top.
How to Make Million Dollar Mac & Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Cook Pasta
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly spraying a 9x13x2-inch pan with cooking spray—this makes cleanup easier and prevents sticking. Meanwhile, cook your elbow macaroni according to the package directions until perfectly tender. Be sure to drain it thoroughly to avoid excess water diluting the creamy cheese mixtures.
Step 2: Combine Pasta and Ragu Cheese Sauce
In a large bowl, mix the cooked macaroni with the Ragu cheese sauce until the pasta is fully coated. This step infuses the pasta with a savory, cheesy tomato flavor that forms the foundation of this rich dish. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the creamy cheese layer.
Step 3: Mix Cream Cheese Blend
In another large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, and dried parsley. Stir until everything is blended into a smooth, creamy mixture. This luscious blend will add tang and extra moisture to keep the mac and cheese from drying out during baking.
Step 4: Assemble the Layers
Start by placing half of the macaroni and Ragu cheese mixture in the bottom of your prepared dish. Gently spread the cream cheese mixture over the noodles in an even layer, then top with the remaining macaroni mixture. Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. This layering technique ensures every bite has a perfect balance of cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Bake the assembled mac and cheese uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes. During this time, the cheddar cheese on top will melt beautifully and turn golden brown, while the inside becomes bubbling and delectably creamy. Once baked, allow the dish to cool for 10 to 15 minutes to let it set and make serving easier.
How to Serve Million Dollar Mac & Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up the rich flavors, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top just before serving. A light dusting of smoked paprika or a few crunchy breadcrumbs can add a lovely contrast in texture that your guests will appreciate.
Side Dishes
Pair this dish with crisp green vegetables like steamed broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a fresh garden salad for balance. For heartier meals, it goes wonderfully alongside grilled chicken, barbecue ribs, or roasted vegetables, creating a comforting and complete dinner everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions of this Million Dollar Mac & Cheese Recipe in small ramekins or cast iron skillets. Press some extra shredded cheese on top and broil for a few minutes to get a beautifully browned crust. You can even add crispy bacon bits or caramelized onions to the top layer before baking for a mouthwatering upgrade.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Million Dollar Mac & Cheese Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain its creamy texture, avoid over-stirring when reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish before baking by assembling it in a freezer-safe dish and wrapping it tightly. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, warm individual servings in the microwave, covering loosely to keep moisture in and stirring halfway to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, you can swap in penne, shells, or cavatappi. Just be sure to adjust cooking time based on the package instructions.
Is there a way to make this dish vegan?
To veganize this Million Dollar Mac & Cheese Recipe, substitute dairy cheeses with plant-based alternatives and use vegan cream cheese and sour cream. Use a dairy-free cheese sauce or homemade vegan cheese sauce to keep that rich flavor.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely. Cooked shredded chicken, crispy bacon, or even sautéed mushrooms make fantastic additions to add more heartiness and flavor.
What if I don’t have Ragu cheese sauce?
If Ragu cheese sauce isn’t available, you can substitute with your favorite jarred cheese or Alfredo sauce, or even a homemade cheese sauce made with cheddar and cream.
How do I get a crispy top on the mac and cheese?
For a perfectly crispy crust, sprinkle extra shredded cheddar or panko breadcrumbs on top before baking. You can also broil the dish for a few minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Final Thoughts
This Million Dollar Mac & Cheese Recipe combines simplicity with indulgence so effortlessly, making it a standout favorite you’ll return to again and again. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to wow your guests, it delivers creamy, cheesy satisfaction every single time. Give it a try and watch this humble comfort food transform into your new go-to masterpiece!
Print
Million Dollar Mac & Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Total Time: 45-55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Million Dollar Mac & Cheese is a creamy, cheesy baked pasta dish perfect for family dinners. Combining elbow macaroni with a rich blend of Ragu cheese sauce, cottage cheese, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar, it delivers a comforting, flavorful meal baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 1 (16-oz) box elbow macaroni
- 1 (16-oz) jar Ragu cheese sauce
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup cottage cheese
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 Tbsp dried parsley
Topping
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF (175ºC) and lightly spray a 9x13x2-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta thoroughly.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large bowl, mix the cooked macaroni with the entire jar of Ragu cheese sauce. Set this cheesy pasta mixture aside.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In another large bowl, combine the cottage cheese, softened cream cheese, sour cream, and dried parsley. Mix until smooth and evenly blended.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread half of the macaroni and cheese sauce mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Then, spread the cottage cheese mixture evenly over this layer.
- Add Remaining Pasta and Cheese: Top the cream cheese layer with the remaining macaroni mixture. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30 to 40 minutes, until the cheese on top is bubbly and lightly browned.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and allow to cool for 10 to 15 minutes before serving to let the dish set and enhance flavors.
Notes
- For a sharper flavor, use extra sharp cheddar cheese.
- You can substitute homemade cheese sauce if preferred.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add cooked bacon or breadcrumbs on top for extra texture.
- Make sure to soften the cream cheese before mixing to avoid lumps.
