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White Cheddar Mac and Cheese


  • Author: Emily
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This white cheddar mac and cheese is rich, creamy, and bursting with cheesy goodness. Made with freshly grated white cheddar and a smooth, velvety sauce, this dish is the ultimate comfort food. Perfect as a main dish or a side, it's easy to make and incredibly satisfying!


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta & Cheese Sauce:

  • 1 pound cavatappi pasta (or elbow macaroni, shells)
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk (or 2 cups milk + 2 cups heavy cream)
  • 16 ounces white cheddar cheese, freshly grated (about 4 cups)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for a smoky flavor)
  • ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder (for depth)
  • ½ cup grated parmesan (for extra cheesiness)
  • ½ cup crispy bacon bits (for crunch)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes.
  3. Drain the pasta and set aside (do not rinse).

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

  1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
  3. Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
  4. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens.
  5. Reduce heat to low and gradually add shredded white cheddar, stirring until smooth.
  6. Add garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

  1. Add the drained pasta to the cheese sauce.
  2. Stir gently to coat each piece of pasta in the creamy sauce.
  3. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to adjust consistency.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Serve hot, garnished with freshly ground black pepper or extra cheese.
  2. Pair with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or crispy bacon bits.

Notes

  • For a baked version: Transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and extra cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes.
  • For extra creaminess: Add an extra ½ cup of cheese just before serving.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Reheating: Warm on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 650
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg