What’s in White Mac and Cheese?
I can’t get over how cheesy and creamy this white cheddar mac and cheese recipe is. It’s the perfect combination of ingredients to create something truly crave-worthy. Grab these ingredients and get to cooking!
Butter + All-Purpose Flour: Combine to create a roux that thickens the sauce. Milk: I’m using whole milk but skim or 2% would also work in this recipe. Heavy Cream: Adds richness to the cheese sauce. White Wine: Adds a touch of acidity that really enhances the overall flavor of this sauce. If you’re not a drinker, you can swap this out for more milk. Pasta: I’m using elbow macaroni in this recipe but feel free to use what you have on hand! You can of course use cavatappi, mini shells, or any medium-sized pasta shape. Dijon mustard: Adds just a hint of warm, spicy flavor. Salt + Pepper: Enhance the natural flavor of the cheese. White Cheddar Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts so much better than pre-shredded cheese– plus it has more flavor! Panko Breadcrumbs: Create a crispy, crunchy topping. Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami flavor to the topping. Chives: Add a pop of color and freshness!
Pro Tip: Use room temperature milk and cream to prevent curdling.
Variations on Mac and Cheese for a Crowd
This savory white cheddar mac and cheese casserole is great as is, but you can spice it up by adding crumbled cooked bacon, sausage, or ham; shredded chicken; broccoli florets, diced peppers and onions; Buffalo sauce or sriracha; canned beans and salsa, canned tuna, or chili. There are really so many ways to load up this pasta!
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover white cheddar mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat covered with aluminum foil in a 350°F oven for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until hot and bubbly.
How to Freeze
Freeze leftovers whole or in individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
White cheddar mac and cheese is a rich and hearty dish that you can enjoy as a simple main dish or a tasty side dish. The addition of Grilled Chicken Breast and Air Fryer Broccoli would make this the ultimate weeknight dinner! Or serve this pull apart cheesy bread on the side.
More Mac and Cheese Recipes We Love
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Instant Pot Mac and Cheese Loaded Mac and Cheese Taco Mac and Cheese Pesto Mac and Cheese Lobster Mac and Cheese Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Mexican Mac and Cheese King Ranch Chicken Mac and Cheese
