Copycat Costco Deli Mac and Cheese

My Perfect Copycat Costco Mac and Cheese

Let me tell you a story about my obsession with Costco's deli mac and cheese. It's the kind of cheesy, creamy, perfectly comforting dish that makes you forget all about your diet (at least for a little while!). The problem? They only sell it during a very specific time of year. Imagine my disappointment when my cravings hit and the glorious, cheesy goodness was nowhere to be found. I knew I had to do something, and what better solution for a hungry housewife than to recreate it myself?

So, I embarked on a culinary quest. I scoured the internet for clues, experimented with different cheeses, and tweaked the recipe until I achieved something truly special. This is not just mac and cheese; it's a culinary masterpiece (in my humble opinion, of course!). It's the kind of dish that brings the whole family together, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a celebratory gathering. The rich, creamy texture, blended with the sharp cheddar and the subtle hint of pecorino romano...oh, my! It’s seriously decadent, and honestly, every bite is pure joy. This recipe is definitely NOT diet-friendly, but it's worth every single calorie. I’m not going to lie; it's a bit of a time commitment (especially if you have to go shopping for the ingredients) but it's so worth the effort. Trust me on this one; it's pure comfort food perfection.

The best part about this recipe? It’s incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different types of pasta, or add other ingredients like bacon or jalapenos to kick it up a notch. Or, if you're looking to make it a bit lighter (although, let's be honest, it's hard to make this recipe light!), you could use less cheese or a blend of cheeses. No matter how you make it, I guarantee it will be a hit with your family and friends.

This mac and cheese isn't just a dish; it's an experience. It's the taste of comfort, the feeling of satisfaction, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones. It's the culinary equivalent of a warm hug on a cold day. And that’s why, my friends, this Copycat Costco Mac and Cheese recipe has a permanent place in my recipe book, and, hopefully, in yours too! Now go forth and create some cheesy magic! I know you won't regret it.

Ingredients: (This list is provided for your convenience and for reference; the precise measurements are mentioned in the original recipe itself.)

• Cavatappi pasta
• Butter
• Heavy cream
• Garlic salt
• Pepper
• Parmesan cheese
• Pecorino Romano cheese
• Cheddar cheese

Step-by-step

• Cook cavatappi pasta according to package directions until al dente, drain, add 1 Tbsp of butter while still hot, and mix; set aside to cool mostly.
• In a large saucepan, melt 1 cup butter into 3/4 pint heavy cream over low heat.
• Add garlic salt and pepper to taste.
• Stir in the pecorino romano and parmesan cheese over medium heat until melted and the sauce thickens.
• Remove from heat and allow to cool mostly.
• Once noodles and sauce are slightly warm, stir the sauce into the noodles.
• Add 3 cups of cheddar cheese and mix well.
• Smooth the mixture into a 13x9x2 baking dish.
• Sprinkle the remaining cup of cheddar cheese on top.
• Bake at 350 degrees F for 30 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned.