Go Back
–+ servings
White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese for Ultimate Comfort

A creamy and indulgent White Cheddar Mac and Cheese recipe that transforms a classic favorite into a comforting dish.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cheese Sauce
  • 2 cups Freshly Grated White Cheddar Ensure best melt by avoiding pre-shredded.
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Vital for creating a roux.
  • 1/4 cup Flour Thickens the cheese sauce.
  • 2 cups Milk For creaminess; lower-fat or dairy-free options can be used.
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta (elbow or cavatappi) Cook al dente.
For Seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder Elevates flavor.
  • to taste Salt Essential for balancing flavors.
  • to taste Black Pepper Essential for balancing flavors.
  • optional Paprika Adds warmth and complexity.
For Variations
  • 1 cup Vegetables (spinach, peas, or butternut squash) Mix in for added nutrition and flavor.
  • 8 ounces Gluten-Free Pasta Use as a gluten-free option.

Equipment

  • medium-sized saucepan
  • Large pot
  • Colander
  • spatula

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
  3. Gradually whisk in warm milk, stirring continuously for about 3-5 minutes until thickened.
  4. Reduce heat to low, add white cheddar slowly while stirring until melted and smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add drained pasta to the cheese sauce, folding gently and seasoning to taste.
  6. Transfer to serving dish or preheat oven to 350°F for a crispy topping. Bake for 15-20 minutes if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 18gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUCalcium: 400mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use freshly grated cheese for best results. Adjust seasoning to your taste. Leftovers can be refrigerated or frozen.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!