A Short Story About the Recipe

Ever since I started experimenting with pasta recipes, mac and cheese has always been a classic in my kitchen. But one day, I wanted to take it up a notch and create something fun, spooky, and perfect for family gatherings or themed dinners. That is how Ghoul-gheroni and Cheese was born! The name is playful and inspired by its creamy, cheesy richness, paired with a fun twist on traditional macaroni. It’s the kind of dish that brings both comfort and excitement to the table, turning a simple dinner into a special event. When I first served this recipe, everyone was intrigued by the name and loved the taste even more.

I created this recipe to show that homemade comfort food can still be unique and playful. The cheesy sauce is silky smooth, coating every piece of pasta perfectly. It’s indulgent, filling, and exactly the kind of dish you crave on a cozy evening. This is not just another mac and cheese – it’s a recipe that will make you smile even before the first bite.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You will love this Ghoul-gheroni and Cheese because it is:

Rich and creamy – every bite is loaded with gooey cheese.
Easy to prepare – you only need basic kitchen tools and simple ingredients.
Perfect for gatherings – it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Family-friendly – kids love the fun name, and adults appreciate the flavor.

Versatile

What makes this recipe special is how easily you can adapt it. You can use different types of pasta, from classic elbow macaroni to shells or even whole wheat options. You can swap cheeses to suit your taste – cheddar for sharpness, mozzarella for extra stretch, or a mix for depth of flavor. Add cooked vegetables like broccoli or peas for extra nutrition, or stir in shredded chicken ham for a protein boost.

Affordable

Another reason this recipe is a winner is its affordability. All the ingredients are pantry staples or easy to find at any supermarket. You can make a big batch without spending too much, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients for the Recipe

500 g elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta shape)
4 cups milk
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
1 teaspoon mustard powder
½ teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: 1 cup cooked chicken ham, diced
Optional: 1 cup steamed broccoli or peas

How to Prepare This Recipe

Making Ghoul-gheroni and Cheese is simple and straightforward, yet the result feels like a restaurant-quality dish. With just a few basic steps, you can prepare a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that is satisfying and customizable. Follow these instructions carefully to get that smooth, velvety sauce and perfectly cooked pasta.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparation

Cook the pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni (or your chosen pasta shape) and cook until just al dente according to the package instructions. This ensures the pasta holds its texture when baked or mixed with the sauce. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Prepare the cheese sauce base:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. Stir continuously with a whisk or wooden spoon for about one to two minutes to form a smooth paste. This step, called making a roux, helps thicken the sauce and keeps it from becoming lumpy.
Add the milk:
Gradually pour in the milk, a little at a time, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and whisking until the mixture becomes smooth and starts to thicken. This step should take about five to seven minutes. The mixture should lightly coat the back of a spoon when ready.
Season the sauce:
Stir in the mustard powder, paprika, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. These seasonings add subtle depth and warmth to the cheese sauce, balancing the richness of the cheese. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Add the cheese:
Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese (or your chosen blend). Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If you prefer an extra cheesy dish, add a little more cheese at this stage.
Combine pasta and sauce:
Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan with the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat every piece of pasta evenly. If you are adding cooked chicken ham or vegetables, fold them in now so that everything is well distributed.
Optional baking step:
If you prefer a golden, crispy top, transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a lightly buttered baking dish. Sprinkle a layer of extra cheese or breadcrumbs on top and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15 to 20 minutes, until bubbly and golden brown.
Serve immediately:
Once ready, spoon the Ghoul-gheroni and Cheese into bowls or plates. Serve it hot for the best flavor and texture.

Quick and Easy

This dish takes under 40 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The stovetop version is particularly quick, while the baked version adds just a few extra minutes for a crispy finish.

Customizable

You can adjust this recipe to suit your preferences. Swap cheddar with mozzarella for a stretchier cheese pull, or use a sharper cheese like Gruyère for a more sophisticated flavor. For extra nutrition, add roasted vegetables or even a handful of spinach. If you want a spicier kick, stir in a dash of chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Popular with Many People

Ghoul-gheroni and Cheese is a dish that never fails to impress. Its creamy, cheesy texture makes it a hit with kids, while adults appreciate its comforting, homey flavor. It is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you need a warm, hearty meal to share. The fun name also makes it perfect for themed events or Halloween gatherings.

Spooky Ghost Mac and Cheese – Ghoul-gheroni Halloween Recipe

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Ghoul-gheroni and Cheese is a fun and creamy twist on classic mac and cheese. It combines perfectly cooked pasta with a smooth, cheesy sauce that is simple to prepare and easy to customize. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or themed events where you want to serve a cozy and satisfying meal.

Author: Lura Skye
Prep Time: 10
Cook Time: 25
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 1x

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for one to two minutes until smooth.
Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
Stir in mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Lower the heat and add the shredded cheese. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
Add the cooked pasta to the saucepan and mix until all the pasta is well coated in sauce.
Stir in chicken ham or vegetables if using.
For a crispy topping, transfer to a buttered baking dish, top with extra cheese or breadcrumbs, and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce.

Whole milk works best for a creamy texture, but you can use low-fat milk if preferred.

If reheating leftovers, add a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

FAQs

Can I make Ghoul-gheroni and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and cheese sauce separately a few hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator. When you are ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on the stove, then combine it with the pasta and bake or serve immediately.

Which pasta shape works best for this recipe?
Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but shells, cavatappi, or penne work just as well. The key is choosing a shape that holds the cheese sauce well, so each bite is coated with creamy goodness.

Can I make this recipe healthier?
Yes, you can use whole wheat pasta, low-fat milk, or reduce the amount of cheese slightly. Adding vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or spinach also increases the nutritional value.

How do I store leftovers?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of milk before warming on the stove or in the oven to bring back the creamy texture.

Can I freeze Ghoul-gheroni and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Store in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake before serving.