Why You’ll Love This Recipe

White Cheddar Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting classic with a sharp, tangy twist thanks to aged white cheddar cheese. Rich, smooth, and incredibly satisfying, this dish is perfect as a main course or a decadent side. It’s quick to make and far more flavorful than anything from a box.

ingredients

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

elbow macaroniwhite cheddar cheese (shredded)butterall-purpose flourwhole milkheavy creamgarlic powdermustard powder (optional)saltblack pepper

directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.

Reduce heat to low and add the shredded white cheddar cheese.

Stir until melted and smooth.

Season with garlic powder, mustard powder (if using), salt, and black pepper.

Add the cooked macaroni to the sauce and stir until fully coated.

Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky crunch.
Mix in sautéed spinach or peas for a pop of green.
Top with breadcrumbs and broil for a crispy finish.
Use a blend of cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan for extra depth.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but fresh shredded cheese melts more smoothly and gives better flavor.

Why is my sauce grainy?
Overheating the cheese can cause it to break. Melt it gently on low heat.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but it’s best fresh. If making ahead, keep the pasta and sauce separate and combine when reheating.

What pasta shape works best?
Elbow macaroni is classic, but shells, cavatappi, or penne also work well.

Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

Is white cheddar stronger than yellow cheddar?
White cheddar tends to have a sharper flavor, especially when aged.

Can I add protein to this dish?
Grilled chicken, lobster, or pulled pork make great add-ins.

Does it reheat well?
Yes, though the sauce may thicken—just add milk while reheating.

Can I bake it?
Absolutely. Transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and cheese, and bake until golden.

Is mustard powder necessary?
No, but it adds a subtle tang that enhances the cheese flavor.

Conclusion

White Cheddar Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. Its bold flavor and creamy texture make it a standout dish for family dinners, potlucks, or weeknight indulgence. One bite, and it’ll be your new go-to mac and cheese.