Why You’ll Love This Recipe

White Cheddar Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting dish that elevates traditional mac and cheese with the rich, sharp flavor of white cheddar. Its silky texture and cheesy depth make it a perfect side dish or a satisfying main course. Whether served at family dinners or special gatherings, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for cheese lovers of all ages.

ingredients

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

elbow macaroniwhite cheddar cheese (sharp or extra sharp)butterall-purpose flourwhole milkheavy creamDijon mustardsaltblack pepperpaprika (optional for garnish)breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

directions

Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.

Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously until smooth and thickened.

Add the Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper, then reduce the heat to low.

Stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese until completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.

For a baked version, transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs and a bit of paprika, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 20 minutesBaking time (optional): 15-20 minutesTotal time: 30-45 minutes

Variations

Add cooked bacon or pancetta for a smoky flavor boost.

Mix in sautéed spinach or roasted broccoli for added greens.

Use a blend of cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for extra richness.

Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce.

Top with crushed Ritz crackers or seasoned panko instead of plain breadcrumbs.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a microwave with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess, or warm on the stovetop over low heat.Add extra cheese or cream if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

What makes white cheddar different from yellow cheddar?

White cheddar is essentially the same as yellow cheddar but without added coloring. It typically has a sharper flavor and creamier melt.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but for the smoothest sauce, freshly shredded cheese melts better and avoids graininess.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, but you can add spices or hot sauce if you like heat.

Can I freeze White Cheddar Mac and Cheese?

It’s best fresh, but you can freeze it in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Reheat with extra cream or milk.

Can I use other pasta shapes?

Yes, cavatappi, shells, or rotini work well and hold sauce beautifully.

What milk should I use?

Whole milk and heavy cream create the richest, creamiest result. You can substitute with lower-fat milk, but the texture may be thinner.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

Why is my sauce gritty?

Avoid overheating the cheese, and use freshly grated cheese to prevent separation and grittiness.

Can I add protein?

Yes, grilled chicken, lobster, or ham are all great add-ins.

Is baking required?

No, it’s optional. You can enjoy it creamy straight from the stovetop.

Conclusion

White Cheddar Mac and Cheese is a luxurious twist on a classic comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners or indulgent side dishes. With its velvety texture and robust cheese flavor, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe whenever you crave something rich, satisfying, and full of cheesy goodness.