When the weather cools down or the day just feels a little too long, there’s nothing quite like a big, creamy bowl of homemade mac and cheese to bring everyone together.
And if you’re looking to take that classic comfort food up a notch, this White Cheddar Mac and Cheese is the answer.
It’s rich, creamy, and packed with the bold flavor of real white cheddar cheese. Best of all, it’s still simple enough to whip up for a cozy family dinner that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Let’s make some magic happen!
Why You’ll Love This White Cheddar Mac and Cheese
- 🧀 Extra cheesy with real sharp white cheddar
- 🍽️ Simple ingredients, big homemade flavor
- 🕒 Quick and easy — ready in under an hour
- 🥘 Perfect side dish or main event for family dinners
- 💛 Rustic, cozy vibes that everyone at the table will love
What Makes White Cheddar Special?
White cheddar is just cheddar cheese that hasn’t been colored with annatto seeds (the natural food dye that makes traditional cheddar orange).
But there’s something a little sharper, a little creamier, and just a bit more elegant about using white cheddar in mac and cheese.
It gives you:
- A bolder, tangier flavor
- A creamier melt
- A beautiful rustic look — no bright orange here, just pure cheesy goodness
Perfect for when you want mac and cheese that feels both comforting and just a little bit special.
Ingredients You’ll Need (Serves 4)
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni (or small shells)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole milk (warm)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional but recommended)
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for topping)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make White Cheddar Mac and Cheese
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add pasta and cook until al dente-tender but still with a little bite.
Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1–2 minutes, forming a light roux.
Slowly whisk in the warm milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
Cook until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon, about 3–5 minutes.
Lower the heat and stir in the shredded white cheddar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely into a silky, creamy sauce.
Step 3: Combine and Assemble
Gently fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until fully coated.
At this point, you can serve it as-is for a super creamy stovetop version.
Or if you love a crunchy topping, continue to the next step!
Step 4: Optional Baked Topping
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pour the mac and cheese into a buttered 8×8-inch baking dish.
Mix the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the top.
Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the mac and cheese into big bowls, garnish with a little chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Prepare for smiles around the table—this dish is cozy comfort in every bite!
Tips for the Creamiest White Cheddar Mac and Cheese
- Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can have additives that prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Use whole milk and cream: The richness matters!
- Warm your milk: Cold milk can make the sauce lumpy.
- Don’t rush the sauce: Melt the cheese slowly over low heat for the creamiest texture.
What to Serve with White Cheddar Mac and Cheese
This cozy dish pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted vegetables (like broccoli or Brussels sprouts)
- Grilled or roasted chicken
- A crisp green salad with a simple vinaigrette
- Warm cornbread or soft dinner rolls
Or serve it all by itself on a big plate with extra black pepper — sometimes that’s all you really need. ❤️
Other Twists To Try
- Velveeta Mac and Cheese Recipe: Creamy & Delicious
- Lobster Mac and Cheese: A Cozy Twist on a Family Favorite
- Panera Mac and Cheese Recipe: The Best Copycat Version
- Smoked Brisket Mac and Cheese: Smoky, Cheesy Comfort at Its Best
- Slow-Cooked Brisket Mac and Cheese: Comfort Food That Warms the Soul
Make-Ahead and Storage
- Make-Ahead: Assemble, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating Tip: Add a splash of milk before microwaving or reheating gently on the stove to revive the creamy texture.
🧀 Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between white cheddar and regular cheddar in mac and cheese?
White cheddar is sharper and a bit creamier than traditional orange cheddar.
It melts beautifully and gives a deeper, richer flavor without any added colorants.
Can I use pre-shredded white cheddar for mac and cheese?
You can, but for the smoothest sauce, it’s better to shred your own cheese from a block.
Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make sauces gritty.
Should I bake white cheddar mac and cheese?
Baking is optional!
For ultra-creamy mac and cheese, serve straight from the stovetop.
If you love a crispy topping, bake it for 15–20 minutes with buttery breadcrumbs.
How do you keep mac and cheese creamy after baking?
Don’t overbake it, and use plenty of sauce when assembling.
Adding a little cream to the sauce before baking can help keep everything rich and luscious.