If you’re seeking a rich and comforting pasta dish, look no further than white cheddar mac! This creamy, baked delight is perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night. The magic of white cheddar mac lies in its unique, tangy cheese flavor balanced by a crunchy, herbed breadcrumb topping. This crowd-pleasing recipe makes it a versatile side or stand-alone main that everyone will love.
Add some of your favorite ingredients to make this dish even more irresistible. Diced ham, crispy bacon, or roasted vegetables can all bring a new dimension of flavor and texture to the classic white cheddar mac. Experimenting with different types of cheeses, such as Gruyère or Gouda, can also elevate its taste. Whether you stick to the original recipe or put your spin on it, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.
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Recipe Card
Recipe name: White Cheddar Mac
Description: This delightful dish combines a smooth, velvety cheese sauce with perfectly cooked pasta. Topped with a crunchy layer of breadcrumbs, it adds a satisfying texture that contrasts beautifully with the rich, cheesy interior. This comforting and flavorful creation will surely be an instant hit, appealing to anyone who savors the classic taste of macaroni and cheese elevated to new heights!
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 724 kcal
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound cavatappi pasta
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk (plus more as needed)
- 16 ounces white cheddar cheese, freshly grated (about 4 cups)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (plus more to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Herbed Breadcrumb Topping:
- 6 slices white sandwich bread
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the pasta in salted water until it reaches an al dente texture. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Bechamel Sauce: Gently melt the butter over medium-low heat in a large pot. Slowly incorporate the flour, whisking constantly to create a smooth roux. Gradually add milk, stirring as the sauce thickens.
- Incorporate Cheese: Stir in the grated white cheddar and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If a creamier consistency is desired, gradually incorporate more milk as needed.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat well.
- Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping: Pulse bread, melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in a food processor.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour white cheddar mac into a baking dish, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Allow it to cool before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
- Sharp vs. Mild Cheddar: Use sharp white cheddar for bolder flavors.
- Freshly Grate Cheese: Avoid pre-shredded cheese, which may cause a gritty texture.
- Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare up to step 7 and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Bake when ready.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as dairy sauces may separate upon reheating.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe
- Calories: 724 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Protein: 27g
- Fat: 39g
- Saturated Fat: 23g
- Cholesterol: 109mg
- Sodium: 513mg
- Potassium: 401mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 9g
- Vitamin A: 1216 IU
- Calcium: 616mg
- Iron: 2mg
Why You’ll Love This White Cheddar Mac Recipe
- Creamy and Rich: Freshly grated white cheddar provides a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s irresistible.
- Perfect Balance of Texture: The herbed breadcrumb topping adds the ideal crunch to contrast with the soft pasta.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: White cheddar mac can be prepped ahead, making it perfect for holiday meals.
- Versatile Dish: It pairs beautifully with various main courses or can be enjoyed as a stand-alone meal.
- Loved by All: Kids and adults alike can’t get enough of this cheesy, comforting dish.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions for White Cheddar Mac
- White Cheddar Cheese: The essential ingredient, white cheddar, brings sharpness and depth. If you’re out, try gruyere or gouda for a similar creaminess.
- Whole Milk: Creates a thick, creamy sauce. While 2% milk works, avoid skim milk, as it can make the sauce too thin.
- Breadcrumbs: Fresh sandwich bread is ideal for creating a crunchy topping, but panko serves as an excellent alternative.
How to Make White Cheddar Mac (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the pasta in salted water until it achieves an al dente texture. This ensures it will hold up well in the oven and absorb the cheese sauce in baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
Melt butter over medium heat in a pot, whisking in the flour to create a smooth roux. Gradually add milk, stirring as the sauce thickens. Once thick, add freshly grated white cheddar and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 3: Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping
Pulse bread, butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in a food processor. This will be your delicious, crispy topping.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the pasta and cheese mixture into a baking dish, sprinkle the breadcrumb topping, and bake at 375°F for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Expert Tips for Success with White Cheddar Mac
- Use Freshly Grated White Cheddar: Pre-shredded cheese often has starches that can make the sauce gritty.
- Whisk the Sauce Well: Gradually adding milk to the roux and stirring constantly will prevent lumps.
- Don’t Overbake: Watch closely to avoid drying out the sauce.
Variations and Customizations for White Cheddar Mac
- Add Vegetables: Stir in blanched broccoli or roasted red peppers for added color and nutrients.
- Protein Boost: Diced ham, crispy bacon, or cooked chicken make delicious additions.
- Spicy Version: Try chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a hint of spice.
Storage and Reheating Instructions for White Cheddar Mac
- Refrigerate: Keep leftovers fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Freezing: Avoid freezing, as the cheese sauce may separate and become gritty.
Serving Suggestions for White Cheddar Mac
White cheddar mac pairs beautifully with hearty mains like roasted chicken, honey-glazed ham, or grilled vegetables. A fresh salad or steamed green beans add a great contrast, balancing out the richness of the cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
It’s not recommended, as pre-shredded cheese contains starches and preservatives that make the sauce gritty. Freshly grate a block of white cheddar for best results.
Is it necessary to bake the mac and cheese?
Baking is optional. However, baking with breadcrumbs adds texture and enhances the flavors.
Can I freeze mac and cheese?
Freezing is not recommended, as dairy doesn’t freeze well and can become gritty upon reheating.
Related Recipes
If you’re a fan of white cheddar mac, here are some other cheesy recipes to try:
- Classic Stovetop Mac and Cheese: A creamy and easy stovetop mac and cheese recipe with cheddar and parmesan.
- Baked Macaroni and Cheese: This rich and indulgent baked mac and cheese is made with a blend of sharp cheddar, gruyere, and fontina cheeses.
- Broccoli Cheddar Casserole: Creamy broccoli cheddar casserole topped with crispy breadcrumbs. The perfect side dish for any meal.
Conclusion
White cheddar mac is the perfect comfort food for any occasion, offering a creamy sauce, a hint of tang from sharp white cheddar, and a deliciously crunchy breadcrumb topping. This recipe will surely please, whether for a holiday celebration or a cozy family dinner. With easy-to-follow steps, make-ahead tips, and simple ingredient swaps, this white cheddar mac will quickly become a staple in your home. Try it, and savor every cheesy bite!