White Cheddar Mac and Cheese
White Cheddar Mac and Cheese is a rich, creamy twist on the classic comfort food, made with sharp white cheddar cheese and tender elbow macaroni. Perfect as a main dish or a hearty side.
- Author: Mariem
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra depth)
- Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder if using.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded white cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with more cheese or breadcrumbs.
Notes
- Use whole milk for a richer sauce, but low-fat milk also works.
- Sharp white cheddar gives the best flavor, but mix with mozzarella for a milder version.
- For baked mac and cheese, transfer to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and broil until golden.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: white cheddar mac and cheese, creamy macaroni, stovetop mac and cheese, comfort food, cheesy pasta