Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Gourmet
This creamy white cheddar mac and cheese gourmet is a comforting yet elegant dish made with sharp white cheddar, tender pasta, and a velvety cheese sauce. It works as both a main course and a versatile side dish.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 25
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 1x
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 4 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- ½ teaspoon ground mustard (optional)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Slowly pour in the milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Add the heavy cream and continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and ground mustard. Let the mixture simmer gently for 1 minute.
- Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, until fully melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce feels too thick, add a small splash of warm milk.
- For a baked version, transfer the mac and cheese to a buttered baking dish. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, until golden and bubbling.
- Serve hot as a main dish or side.
Notes
For added protein, stir in shredded chicken or top with crispy turkey bacon.
Mix in vegetables such as spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
Always add the cheese on low heat to avoid graininess.