Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’re craving comfort food that hugs you from the inside out, you simply have to try this Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese. It’s a velvety, cheesy dream where smooth white cheddar melds perfectly with mozzarella to create a luxuriously creamy sauce. Every bite feels indulgent yet familiar, with a subtle kick from spices and a satisfyingly crisp breadcrumb topping that adds both texture and golden color. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this mac and cheese recipe delivers pure happiness in a bowl.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For a truly unforgettable mac and cheese, the ingredients are simple but each plays an essential role in building rich flavor and luscious texture. From creamy whole milk to sharp white cheddar, these pantry staples come together to create magic.

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape that holds sauce perfectly for every bite.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps create the roux base for the sauce.
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the cheese sauce for that perfect creamy consistency.
• 3 cups whole milk: Provides a smooth, rich canvas for the cheesy goodness.
• 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese: This sharp and tangy cheese is the star that gives the dish its distinctive flavor.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Brings stretchiness and creaminess to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle depth of savory flavor without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall taste with gentle sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors perfectly.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a mild kick and warmth.
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who like a little heat to wake up the palate.
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Creates a crunchy, golden topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: Mixed with breadcrumbs, it adds an extra layer of cheesy flavor and a crispy finish.

How to Make Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until just al dente. This ensures the pasta will continue cooking slightly in the oven without becoming mushy. Drain it thoroughly and set aside so it’s ready to meet the cheese sauce.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s bubbling but not browned. Then whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This step is key because it cooks out the raw flour taste and forms the base for your creamy sauce.

Step 3: Add the Milk

Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking continuously. Keep stirring as the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, which takes around 5 to 7 minutes. Patience here pays off—the sauce will be smooth and luxurious, the perfect vehicle for the cheese.

Step 4: Stir in the Cheese and Seasonings

Remove the saucepan from the heat before adding the shredded white cheddar and mozzarella, along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper. Stir until all the cheese has melted into a velvety sauce that’s bursting with flavor.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Pour the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and gently fold it together until every piece is generously coated in that creamy white cheddar goodness. This is what dreams are made of!

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Heat your oven to 350°F. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish for even cooking and easy serving.

Step 7: Add the Topping and Bake

Mix the breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the mac and cheese. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is beautifully golden brown and bubbling. This crunchy topping adds an irresistible contrast to the creamy layers beneath.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

After baking, let the dish cool for a few minutes. This resting time helps the flavors settle and makes serving neater, giving you that perfect spoonful of creamy, cheesy comfort.

How to Serve Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top for a fresh pop of color and brightness that cuts through the richness. For an extra indulgent touch, a drizzle of truffle oil or a few crispy bacon bits add exciting layers of flavor.

Side Dishes

Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables, which provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture. For heartier meals, grilled chicken or BBQ ribs make perfect companions to round out the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins and top with extra cheese and breadcrumbs for personalized cheesy crusts. You could also try layering it with sautéed mushrooms and caramelized onions for a gourmet upgrade that will wow your dinner guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures it stays fresh while allowing you to enjoy those comforting flavors again the next day.

Freezing

This mac and cheese freezes beautifully. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain its creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F to restore that crisp breadcrumb topping, or gently warm in the microwave. Adding a splash of milk before reheating can help bring back the creamy consistency without drying out the dish.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of white cheddar?

Absolutely! While white cheddar lends a sharp, tangy flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like gouda, fontina, or even a sharp yellow cheddar. Just keep in mind the melting properties to maintain that perfect creamy texture.

Is it necessary to bake the mac and cheese?

While you can enjoy the sauce just mixed with pasta on the stovetop, baking adds a wonderful golden crust that balances the creaminess beneath. It’s worth the extra step to get that satisfying crunch on top.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

You can substitute the dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like vegan cheese and non-dairy milk, but the texture and flavor might vary. Adding nutritional yeast can help provide cheesy notes in vegan versions.

What’s the purpose of the roux in this recipe?

The roux, made from butter and flour, acts as a thickening agent that gives the cheese sauce its creamy body and prevents it from being runny. Skipping this step could result in a thinner sauce that doesn’t coat the pasta as well.

How can I add more flavor to the mac and cheese?

Try sautéing some garlic or onions before making the roux, adding a little dijon mustard into the sauce, or stirring in cooked bacon or caramelized vegetables for extra depth and complexity.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese is the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again, whether feeding a crowd or just treating yourself. Its balance of rich creaminess, bold cheese flavor, and crunchy topping is pure comfort in every forkful. I can’t wait for you to make this recipe and fall in love with its warm, cheesy embrace just like I have!

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