1-First, boil 8 ounces of macaroni pasta in 8 cups of water seasoned with 1 teaspoon salt, a quarter of a medium white onion, 1 large garlic clove, and 1 bay leaf. Cook for exactly 10 minutes until al dente, then drain the pasta while reserving the onion and garlic for later use. This step infuses the pasta with aromatic flavors right from the start.

2-Next, prepare the sauce by blending 8 ounces of shredded or cubed cheddar or American cheese, 1 roasted red bell pepper, 1 cup of Mexican crema, and the reserved onion and garlic until smooth. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat, then add the cheese and pepper mixture. Stir and cook for about 3 minutes to blend everything perfectly.

3-Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste, then mix it with the drained pasta. Cook together for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavors meld. Finally, garnish with crushed red pepper if you want a bit of heat, and serve it up for a dish that serves 6 with balanced nutrition.