This recipe takes the beloved mac and cheese to new heights with the rich and bold flavors of white cheddar cheese. Each bite is a perfect balance of creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta, creating a dish that is both nostalgic and sophisticated.

Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing side dish, this white cheddar mac and cheese is sure to be a hit.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale

8 ounces elbow macaroni
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)

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Instructions

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until it thickens and comes to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded white cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using). Stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well-coated.
Serve the white cheddar mac and cheese hot, and optionally garnish with additional shredded cheese or a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor and presentation.

Notes

Opt for sharp or extra-sharp white cheddar for a bold and flavorful mac and cheese. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, as freshly shredded cheese will melt more smoothly. Also be sure to whisk the roux continuously to evenly distribute the flour and avoid lumps. This step is crucial for a smooth and creamy cheese sauce.

Feel free to add mix-ins such as cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or chopped herbs to personalize your dish. Serve warm and enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 480
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 570mg
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Pair this with...

Baked Beans

Grab a can of your favorite beans (navy or pinto work great) and drain off the excess liquid. In a baking dish, combine the beans with a good squirt of ketchup, a dollop of mustard, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, and a sprinkling of brown sugar. Mix it all up and pop it into the oven and bake until it's bubbling.

Fried Pickles

Start by grabbing a jar of your favorite pickles and slice them into coin shapes. Get 'em on some paper towels to blot out the excess moisture – the drier, the crispier they'll get. In one bowl, whisk up some eggs, and in another, mix together flour or breadcrumbs with seasonings like paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne if you're feeling spicy. Dip each pickle coin into the egg, then into the dry mix, making sure it's well coated. Heat some oil in a skillet until it's shimmering but not smoking. Carefully slide those coated pickles in and fry until they're golden and crispy. It's usually quick, so keep an eye out! Scoop them out, let them rest on a paper towel to get rid of any excess oil, and serve with a dipping sauce.

Fresh Mixed Greens Salad

Start with a base of mixed greens, combining varieties like arugula, spinach, romaine, or any leafy greens you love. Slice up a handful of cherry tomatoes for a burst of juiciness. Next, peel and shave or thinly slice a carrot for a sweet and crunchy addition. Now, here's where you get to be creative. Raid your fridge for veggies – maybe some leftover bell peppers, slices of cucumber, or even some steamed broccoli or green beans. Toss them all into your salad. Drizzle with your favorite vinaigrette or dressing, give it a good mix, and you've got a vibrant, crunchy, and fresh salad that goes well with just about any meal.