Introduction

There’s nothing quite as soul-soothing as a warm bowl of mac n cheese white cheddar. This creamy, cheesy dish is a refined take on the classic comfort food we all know and love. With the rich tanginess of sharp white cheddar and the crunch of golden panko topping, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a household favorite for family dinners and potlucks.

If you’ve only ever had mac and cheese from a box, you’re in for a real treat. This homemade version is indulgent yet surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for cozy nights or special gatherings, mac n cheese white cheddar is the creamy delight you didn’t know you were missing.

Recipe Card

Recipe name: Mac n Cheese White Cheddar

Description: With sharp white cheddar, Parmesan, and a golden panko topping, this mac n cheese white cheddar recipe is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and baked to perfection, it’s perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 553 kcal

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese:

1 lb elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon ground mustard
8 oz sharp white cheddar cheese, freshly grated
4 oz of freshly grated extra sharp white cheddar cheese.
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For the Panko Topping:

½ cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons butter, melted
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon paprika

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 1 minute less than the package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a spacious saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it becomes slightly browned.
Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground mustard. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring continuously, until it thickens, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in the sharp white cheddar, extra sharp white cheddar, and Parmesan until fully melted and smooth.
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until it is fully coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic powder, and paprika. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the pasta.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce. Pre-shredded cheese may lead to a grainy texture.
Combine sharp and extra sharp white cheddar for maximum flavor.
Cook pasta until just al dente to avoid it becoming mushy during baking.
Whole milk creates the creamiest texture, but you can substitute it with 2% if preferred.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 553 kcal
Sugar: 5 g
Sodium: 743 mg
Fat: 28 g
Saturated Fat: 16 g
Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 52 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 23 g
Cholesterol: 82 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Unbeatable Creaminess: This mac n cheese white cheddar features a velvety, luscious cheese sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. It’s the ultimate comfort food.
Sophisticated Flavor: The sharpness of white cheddar and the nutty richness of Parmesan elevate this mac n cheese white cheddar beyond a childhood classic, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both weeknight dinners and last-minute gatherings.
Customizable: From protein-packed additions to veggie boosts, you can tailor this dish to fit your preferences.
Crowd-Pleaser: It’s hard to resist the combination of creamy pasta and golden, crispy panko topping. Whether for a potluck or a family dinner, this recipe shines on any table.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

Pasta: Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but cavatappi, penne, or shell pasta works just as well. Choose shapes that can capture plenty of sauce. For a gluten-free version, swap in gluten-free pasta to enjoy a delicious mac n cheese white cheddar experience.
White Cheddar Cheese: Sharp white cheddar provides the signature tangy flavor. Extra sharp cheddar deepens the taste, while Gruyère or smoked gouda offer unique twists.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory, nutty layer to the cheese sauce. Asiago or Pecorino Romano are great substitutes.
Panko Breadcrumbs: Light and crispy, panko ensures the topping is golden and crunchy. If unavailable, regular breadcrumbs will suffice, or you can use crushed Ritz crackers for a buttery twist.
Whole Milk: Essential for a creamy base, but you can use 2% milk for a lighter option. Avoid skim milk, as it may result in a thinner sauce.

How to Make Mac n Cheese White Cheddar

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling your pasta in salted water until just al dente. Undercooking slightly is key, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to form a roux. Slowly incorporate the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Stir in your seasonings and simmer until the sauce thickens. Off the heat, stir in freshly grated cheeses until fully melted and smooth, creating the rich base for your mac n cheese white cheddar.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Combine the pasta and cheese sauce, mixing until every piece is coated. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. For the topping, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, garlic powder, and paprika, then sprinkle evenly over the dish. Bake until golden brown and bubbling.

Expert Tips for Mac n Cheese White Cheddar Recipe

Grate Your Own Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and prevents a grainy texture, unlike pre-shredded varieties with anti-caking agents, which is especially important when making mac n cheese white cheddar.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercooked pasta ensures it remains firm after baking.
Control the Heat: Remove the sauce from the heat before adding the cheese to prevent clumping or a grainy texture.
Season as You Go: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning to suit your palate. A pinch of nutmeg can add subtle warmth.
Customize the Topping: Add finely chopped herbs, like parsley or thyme, to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor.

Variations and Customizations

Protein Boost: Stir in cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, or even lobster for a luxurious twist in your mac n cheese white cheddar.
Vegetarian-Friendly: Mix in roasted broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions for added texture and flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to adapt the recipe for dietary needs.
Low-Calorie Option: Swap whole milk for a milk alternative like unsweetened almond or oat milk and reduce the amount of cheese slightly.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

To Store: Place leftovers of mac n cheese white cheddar in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To Freeze: Transfer the unbaked or baked mac and cheese to a freezer-safe dish, tightly covered, for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
To Reheat: For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, adding a splash of milk to prevent dryness. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to restore creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

Pair mac n cheese white cheddar with these sides for a complete meal:

Fresh Greens: A simple arugula or spinach salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
Roasted Vegetables: Try asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or roasted cherry tomatoes for a flavorful complement.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy cheese sauce.

For a festive meal, serve it alongside roasted chicken or glazed ham.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this mac n cheese white cheddar ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, then cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding 5–10 extra minutes to ensure it’s heated through.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this recipe?

While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it’s not ideal for this recipe. It contains anti-caking agents that can result in a grainy texture. For the creamiest sauce, grate your cheese fresh.

What’s the best pasta shape for mac n cheese white cheddar?

Elbow macaroni is the classic choice, but cavatappi, shells, or penne are also excellent. Choose a shape that holds the creamy cheese sauce well.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Move the cooled mac and cheese to an airtight, freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Be aware that the texture might alter slightly after freezing.

How do I reheat without drying out the mac and cheese?

Before reheating, add a splash of milk or cream. Warm it in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring gently in between.

If you love this creamy dish, you’ll enjoy these too:

Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese: A veggie-packed twist on the classic.
Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese: A spicy, savory blend perfect for game days.
Lobster Mac and Cheese: An indulgent recipe for special occasions.
Mexican Mac and Cheese: Spiced up with a blend of Mexican cheeses and jalapeños.

Conclusion

Mac n cheese white cheddar is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy textures with bold, cheesy flavors. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, entertaining guests, or meal prepping for the week, this mac n cheese white cheddar recipe is guaranteed to impress.

The best part? It’s endlessly adaptable, allowing you to personalize it to suit your taste buds or dietary preferences. So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and prepare to experience the magic of homemade white cheddar mac and cheese.

We’d love to hear from you! Did you try this recipe? Share your thoughts, variations, or tips in the comments below. Don’t forget to check out our other delicious recipes for more kitchen inspiration!

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