White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

White Cheddar Mac and Cheese is a creamy, rich take on classic comfort food. Made with sharp white cheddar cheese and a smooth, buttery sauce, this dish delivers a bold cheesy flavor and a velvety texture that makes it perfect as a hearty main or indulgent side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Bold Flavor: Sharp white cheddar adds a tangy, mature taste to this childhood favorite.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and a one-pot cheese sauce make this dish come together quickly.
• Customizable: Add-ins like bacon, herbs, or veggies make it easy to adapt to your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or cozy nights at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 pound elbow macaroni (or cavatappi)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese

Optional topping:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce
   In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
   Slowly whisk in warm milk and heavy cream until smooth. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until thickened.
3. Add seasoning and cheese
   Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and gradually add shredded white cheddar, stirring until melted and smooth.
4. Combine pasta and sauce
   Add cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated.
5. Optional baked topping
   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer mac and cheese to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
   In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and garlic powder. Sprinkle over the top.
   Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 to 8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Bacon Mac and Cheese: Add crumbled crispy bacon to the pasta before baking.
• Broccoli Cheddar: Stir in lightly steamed broccoli florets for a veggie-packed twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
• Three Cheese Blend: Mix in mozzarella or gruyère with the white cheddar for extra depth.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk, or in a covered baking dish at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze cooled mac and cheese in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

You can, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives a creamier sauce without additives.

What’s the best pasta for mac and cheese?

Elbow macaroni is traditional, but cavatappi, shells, or rotini work well too.

How do I keep my cheese sauce smooth?

Use warm milk, add cheese off the heat, and stir continuously to avoid clumps or graininess.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble everything (minus the topping) up to a day in advance. Add topping and bake just before serving.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes. Freeze it before or after baking, but skip the breadcrumb topping until reheating for best texture.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and replace the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.

What other cheeses work well in this recipe?

Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Havarti, or Gruyère blend beautifully with white cheddar.

Can I make it on the stovetop only?

Absolutely. Skip the topping and baking—just serve after mixing the pasta with the cheese sauce.

How do I make it creamier?

Use a mix of heavy cream and milk, and don’t overbake if using the oven method.

What can I serve with white cheddar mac and cheese?

It pairs well with roasted veggies, grilled meats, a fresh salad, or even fried chicken.

Conclusion

White Cheddar Mac and Cheese is the perfect balance of comfort and sophistication. Whether baked with a crunchy topping or served creamy straight from the pot, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to love.

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