Description
A creamy and delicious white cheddar mac and cheese recipe that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
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. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually add the shredded white cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined. If desired, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
- If using breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Notes
- For added flavor, mix in cooked bacon, sautéed vegetables, or diced tomatoes before baking.
- Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg