Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

White cheddar mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food rich, creamy, and bursting with bold cheesy flavors. This homemade version is incredibly easy to prepare and beats any store-bought mac and cheese. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner, a side dish for gatherings, or just a cozy meal, this recipe guarantees a creamy and flavorful bite every time.

Made with sharp white cheddar and a velvety cheese sauce, this mac and cheese will become your go-to recipe!

Recipe Preparation Equipment

Before you start making your white cheddar mac and cheese, gather the following equipment:

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Colander for draining pasta
• Medium saucepan for making cheese sauce
• Whisk for mixing the sauce
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Baking dish (if making a baked version)
• Measuring cups and spoons

What Do You Need to Prepare White Cheddar Mac and Cheese?

Ingredients:

• 12 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta of choice)
• 2 cups shredded sharp white cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for extra creaminess)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)

How to Make Easy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Step-by-Step ?

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes golden and bubbly.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

1. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking to avoid lumps.
2. Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

1. Lower the heat and gradually add the white cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring constantly until fully melted.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and mix until the pasta is well coated.
2. For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and broil for a few minutes until golden.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Variations

• Spicy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a kick.
• Bacon White Cheddar Mac and Cheese: Stir in crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory twist.
• Truffle White Cheddar Mac and Cheese: Drizzle a bit of truffle oil before serving for a gourmet upgrade.
• Baked White Cheddar Mac and Cheese: Pour the mac and cheese into a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and Parmesan, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes until crispy on top.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta and swap the flour for a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch.

Cooking Note

For the smoothest and creamiest sauce, use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. If your sauce thickens too much, add a splash of milk to thin it out. Cooking the pasta slightly under al dente helps it absorb the cheese sauce better without becoming mushy.

Serving Suggestions

White cheddar mac and cheese pairs perfectly with:

• Grilled chicken or steak for a protein-packed meal.
• Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or broccoli for a balanced dish.
• Garlic bread or a simple green salad to complement the rich flavors.
• Serve in small ramekins for an elegant dinner party side.

Helpful Tips

• Use a mix of cheeses for the best flavor adding a bit of Gouda or Monterey Jack makes it even creamier.
• Warm the milk before adding it to the roux to prevent lumps.
• Stir constantly while making the sauce to avoid burning.
• Let the mac and cheese sit for a couple of minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken.
• Add a hint of nutmeg for a subtle depth of flavor.

Tips for the Best White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

• Choose high-quality cheese: Aged white cheddar has the best sharp flavor.
• Cook pasta al dente: It will absorb the sauce better without becoming mushy.
• Make it extra creamy: Add a little cream cheese or sour cream for a richer texture.
• Don’t overbake: If baking, just broil the top for a crispy crust instead of overcooking the pasta.

Related Recipes :

• Easy Shrimp Scampi Pasta Bake
• Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta
• Creamy Lemon Ricotta Pasta Recipe
• Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
• Creamy Boursin Pasta Recipe
• Creamy Chicken Carbonara Pasta Recipe

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes! Cavatappi, penne, or shells work great.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to keep it creamy.

Q: Can I freeze white cheddar mac and cheese?
A: Yes, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat with additional milk.

Conclusion

White cheddar mac and cheese is an irresistibly creamy and cheesy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its smooth sauce, rich flavors, and easy customization, this homemade version is a must-try! Whether you’re serving it as a side or main dish, this mac and cheese will always be a hit.

Try it today and enjoy the ultimate comfort food!

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