Indulge in this luscious Queso Fresco Mac and Cheese. A velvety blend of swiss cheese, queso fresco, with a touch of spice. Your unforgettable taste affair is waiting!

This Queso Fresco Mac and Cheese is a seductive masterpiece that teases the senses and leaves an imprint on your creamy fantasies. The creamy swiss cheese seductively brings a sensation of flavor in every bite. Your TOOTz will definitely fall submissively in love with you as you create this comforting dish.

Creamy Queso Frescoand Cheese with panko crumbs.

WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS

Picture this: tender elbow macaroni, bathed in a luxurious blend of melted Swiss cheese and the creamy embrace of queso fresco. The cream is set with a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper, that whispers sweet yumminess.

If you want something differerent, you may be interested in a Mexican flair – Fajita Mac and Cheese that also uses boxed macaroni. If you’re cooking for your Filipino TOOTz, then I would jump on my Filipino Style Mac and Cheese.

But the climax of this affair lies in the crispy Panko crumbs. A golden crown that adds a teasing crunch to each velvety bite. You’ll find yourself enchanted by the flavors, a combination of creamy, cheesy, with the right amount of spice.

Let me invite you to experience Creamy Elegance – Creamy Melty Queso Mac and Cheese Seduction! Are you ready to cream, TOOTz?

THE BREAKDOWN

COOKED ELBOW MACARONI – cooked accordingly to the package instructions.
QUESO FRESCO – I used half a block.
UNSALTED BUTTER
ALL PURPOSE FLOUR
SWISS CHEESE – shredded or slices.
MILK – I used oat milk but any milk will do.
GARLIC, ONION POWDER, PAPRIKA, AND BLACK PEPPER – to taste
PANKO CRUMBS – for the topping

HOW TO MAKE CREAMY MAC AND CHEESE

How to make Queso Fresco Mac and Cheese.

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a pan, melt butter, add flour, and whisk until golden.
Pour in oat milk, stirring until smooth.
Mix in queso fresco and Swiss cheese until creamy.
Season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper.
Combine cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
Transfer to a baking dish.
Melt additional butter, mix with Panko crumbs, and sprinkle over the macaroni.
Bake for 20-25 mins or until golden and bubbly.
Let it cool for a few minutes, then serve and devour your White Mac and Cheese!

SUBSTITUTIONS

Milk: You can use any other milk of your choice, such as whole milk, almond milk, or soy milk.

Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Instead of queso fresco, you can try feta or goat cheese. Additionally, you can mix in Gruyère or white cheddar along with or instead of Swiss cheese for a unique flavor

Panko Crumbs: If you don’t have Panko crumbs, use regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for the topping.

Butter: Use margarine or a plant-based butter for a non-dairy option.

Macaroni: Any pasta shape can work in this recipe. Penne, fusilli, or shells.

Flour: To make the recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour.

VARIATIONS

Bacon Bliss: Add crispy bacon bits into the mac and cheese mixture for a savory flavor. Sprinkle extra bacon on top before baking for a some crunch.

Herb Garden Delight: Add fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley. Mix them into the cheese sauce or sprinkle on top for a burst of herbal goodness.

HOW TO STORE

Fridge: Allow the Mac and Cheese to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate within 2 hours of preparation.

Freezing Leftovers: Keep the leftovers in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Make sure you label with a date. Try to consume the frozen mac and cheese within 2-3 months.

Queso Fresco Mac and Cheese with casserole dish.

HOW TO REHEAT MAC AND CHEESE

If the mac and cheese appears dry after reheating, you can revive its creaminess by adding a bit of milk and stirring until desired consistency is reached. Always ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when reheating to ensure food safety.

Microwave: Portion out the desired amount and place it in a microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until evenly heated.

Stovetop: Reheat on low to medium heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add a splash of milk if it seems dry.

Oven: Place the mac and cheese in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.