If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food with a luxurious twist, this Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese will not disappoint. Silky, velvety cheese coats every tender pasta bite, creating a dish that’s both nostalgic and indulgent. Perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy gatherings, or just a comforting solo treat, it’s a recipe you’ll keep coming back to.

Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe

What sets this version apart is the rich sharpness of white cheddar, which brings an upscale feel to this classic dish. When baked to golden perfection, the cheesy crust gives way to a molten interior that’s irresistibly creamy. One forkful and you’ll understand why it’s a favorite for cheese lovers of all ages.

What Kind of White Cheddar Should I Use?

Opt for a sharp or extra-sharp white cheddar for bold flavor and a beautifully creamy texture. Aged white cheddar provides that tangy depth that balances the richness of the cream and butter. For the best meltability and taste, shred the cheese yourself instead of using pre-shredded bags, which often contain anti-caking agents.

Ingredients for the Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

Elbow Macaroni – The classic choice for mac and cheese. Its curves hold onto the cheesy sauce perfectly.

Butter – Essential for creating the roux base that thickens the sauce.

All-Purpose Flour – Combines with butter to form a roux and gives the sauce its creamy body.

Whole Milk – Adds creaminess and balances the sharpness of the cheese.

Heavy Cream – Boosts the richness and silkiness of the sauce.

Sharp White Cheddar Cheese – The star of the show. Choose high-quality aged cheddar for maximum flavor.

Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the cheese.

Optional: Garlic Powder or Dijon Mustard – These elevate the dish with subtle background flavor notes.

How To Make the Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture turns lightly golden and smells slightly nutty.

Step 3: Add the Dairy

Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking for 3-4 minutes, until the mixture is hot and thickened.

Step 4: Melt in the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low. Add the shredded white cheddar cheese in batches, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and any optional flavorings like garlic powder or Dijon mustard.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Stir the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated. You can serve it as is for a super creamy version, or…

Step 6: Optional Baking

Pour the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish, sprinkle with a bit of extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling. Let cool slightly before serving.

Serving and Storing Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

This mac and cheese is best served hot, straight from the stovetop or oven. The creamy sauce is at its silkiest right after cooking, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a comforting solo meal. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.

To store leftovers, allow the mac and cheese to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What pasta shapes can I use besides elbow macaroni?

You can use shells, cavatappi, or rotini—anything that has grooves or curls to hold onto the creamy sauce.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

While convenient, pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce’s texture. Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly.

Is it okay to skip the baking step?

Absolutely. If you prefer ultra-creamy mac and cheese, skip the baking and serve it straight from the stovetop.

How do I make it even creamier?

Add a bit more heavy cream or incorporate a spoonful of cream cheese to enhance the sauce’s richness.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and substitute the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend suitable for thickening sauces.

What proteins go well with this dish?

Grilled chicken, crispy bacon, or sautéed shrimp make excellent additions for a more filling meal.

Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe

Author: Kate Walton
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Description

This ultra-comforting Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese blends the bold flavor of sharp white cheddar with a silky-smooth sauce. Perfectly baked or stovetop creamy, it’s a dish that turns any night into a cozy indulgence.

Ingredients

12 oz elbow macaroni

4 tbsp unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

3 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional: 1/2 tsp garlic powder or 1 tsp Dijon mustard

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Make the Roux: Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and whisk for 1–2 minutes until golden.
Add Dairy: Slowly whisk in milk and cream. Cook for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
Melt Cheese: Lower heat and stir in cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices.
Combine: Mix in the pasta until fully coated in sauce. Serve immediately for creamy texture.
Optional Bake: Pour into greased baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until golden.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dinner