Ingredients:

  • 1 box Kraft Macaroni and Cheese Box Mix (7.25 oz / 206 g), including cheese powder packet
  • Water, as needed for boiling pasta
  • 1 Tbsp Kosher Salt, for seasoning the water
  • 4 Tbsp Unsalted Butter (57 g)
  • 1/2 cup Whole Milk (or Half-and-Half) (120 ml), cold
  • 2 Tbsp Full-Fat Cream Cheese, softened (30 g)
  • 1/4 tsp Ground Mustard Powder (1 g) (optional)
  • Black Pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 – 1/2 cup Reserved Pasta Water (60 – 120 ml)

Instructions:

  1. Boil and Season the Water: Fill a large stockpot with water. Add 1 Tbsp of Kosher Salt (make the water taste like the sea). Bring the water to a rapid rolling boil.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Add the macaroni from the box. Cook for the minimum time listed on the box (usually 6–8 minutes) until the pasta is perfectly al dente, stirring occasionally.
  3. Drain and Reserve: Before draining, scoop out about 1 cup (240 ml) of the starchy pasta water and set it aside. Drain the macaroni thoroughly using a colander, then return the drained pasta to the empty pot.
  4. Create the Base: In a small saucepan, melt the 4 Tbsp of Unsalted Butter over low heat. Stir in the 2 Tbsp of Cream Cheese and the 1/4 tsp of Mustard Powder (if using). Stir constantly until the cream cheese is fully smooth and incorporated into the butter—no lumps allowed!
  5. Add Liquid: Pour in the 1/2 cup of Cold Whole Milk. Increase the heat slightly to medium-low, stirring constantly until the mixture is warmed through and just barely simmering around the edges.
  6. Whisk in the Powder: Remove the pot from the heat. Gradually sprinkle in the entire packet of Cheese Powder, whisking immediately as you add it. Whisk for 30–60 seconds until the sauce is completely smooth.
  7. Combine and Adjust: Pour the finished cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni in the pot. Stir well to coat every piece evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, add reserved starchy pasta water, 1–2 tablespoons at a time, until the sauce reaches a silky, preferred consistency.
  8. Season and Serve: Stir in freshly ground Black Pepper to taste. Serve immediately while hot.