Ultimate Creamy Macaroni Cheese with Sweet Peas and Pepper

Ingredients

- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a hint of heat)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat.
- Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, approximately PT8M (8 minutes).
- Drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Prepare the Sauce
- In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring gently to combine.
- Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using).

3. Incorporate Peas
- Add the frozen peas to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine well.
- Allow the peas to cook in the sauce for PT5M (5 minutes), stirring occasionally.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese and pea mixture.
- Stir until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce.
- Cook for an additional PT3M (3 minutes) on low heat to ensure everything is thoroughly mixed and heated through.

5. Serve and Enjoy
- Remove from heat and transfer to serving plates.
- Garnish with a little more freshly ground black pepper if desired.
- Serve immediately for the creamiest results.

Total Time

- PT20M
- 20 minutes

Type of Dish

- Dinner

Keywords

- Macaroni Cheese
- Pasta Dinner
- Comfort Food
- Creamy Macaroni
- Peas and Cheese
- Easy Stove Recipe
- Quick Dinner
- Family Meal
- Cheesy Pasta
- Frozen Peas Recipe

Recipe Yield

- Feeds 4 adults

Calories

- 2,500 calories for the entire dish

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