Nothing beats a comforting bowl of homemade mac and cheese, and this White Cheddar Mac and Cheese recipe takes it to the next level. With a creamy, cheesy sauce made from sharp white cheddar, gruyere, and cream cheese, this dish is rich, indulgent, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a holiday side dish, or just to satisfy a craving, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This mac and cheese recipe is perfect for:
- Cheese lovers who enjoy a deeply rich and creamy sauce.
- Families looking for a kid-friendly dish that adults will also adore.
- Anyone who wants an easy-to-make comfort food with restaurant-quality taste.
With its smooth, velvety texture and a slightly sharp bite from the cheddar and gruyere, this dish is a major upgrade from boxed mac and cheese. Plus, it’s simple to prepare and bakes up beautifully for a perfect finish.
Ingredients
To make this irresistible white cheddar mac and cheese, you’ll need:
- 16 ounces elbow macaroni
- ¼ cup butter
- ¼ cup flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1 cup sharp white cheddar, shredded (plus ½ cup for topping if desired)
- ½ cup gruyere cheese, shredded
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- ¼ cup sour cream
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Strainer
- Large saucepan
- Whisk
- 9×13 baking dish
- Nonstick cooking spray
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cheese grater
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Cook the Pasta
Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium-low heat.
- Add the flour and whisk until smooth, forming a roux.
- Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add the salt and ground white pepper.
- Bring to a gentle boil, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Stir in the cheddar, gruyere, cream cheese, and sour cream until fully melted and smooth.
- Remove from heat immediately.
4. Combine and Bake
- Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle extra white cheddar on top if desired.
- Bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the edges are bubbly.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Let the mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness!
Recipe Variations and Swaps
Want to customize this dish? Here are some easy variations:
- Make it spicier: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- Boost the protein: Stir in cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage.
- Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and flour.
- Try different cheeses: Swap gruyere for gouda, fontina, or mozzarella.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
If you have leftovers (which is rare with this delicious dish!), here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm up in the microwave with a splash of milk or reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
- Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Best Food and Drink Pairings
This white cheddar mac and cheese pairs well with:
- Protein: Grilled chicken, steak, or BBQ ribs.
- Veggies: Roasted Brussels sprouts, steamed broccoli, or a fresh side salad.
- Drinks: A crisp white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) or a refreshing iced tea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the dish but don’t bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
It’s best to grate your own cheese, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that affect the sauce’s creaminess.
What can I use instead of white cheddar?
You can substitute regular cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Havarti for a slightly different flavor.
Final Thoughts
This White Cheddar Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your household.
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