Name: Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb cavatappi pasta; 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; 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 tsp mustard powder (optional); 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Mac and cheese has always been a go-to comfort food for me, but once I tried it with white cheddar, there was no turning back. The flavor is rich yet mellow, creamy without being too heavy, and it’s the kind of dish that makes everyone at the table pause and appreciate that first bite. I especially love how the sharpness of white cheddar brings out a gourmet touch to such a humble classic.

I make this Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese on weeknights when I need something satisfying without much effort, but it’s also elegant enough to serve at a dinner gathering. It comes together in one pot, it’s ultra-creamy, and the cheese sauce coats every single bite of pasta like a dream.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

It’s the kind of mac and cheese that feels indulgent but still easy to make. With a smooth and velvety sauce, a mild but flavorful cheese profile, and just the right texture from the pasta, this version is bound to be your new favorite. It’s also a great canvas—add-ins like crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted veggies all blend beautifully with the white cheddar base.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

While elbow macaroni is the traditional choice, I love using cavatappi for this recipe. Its ridges and spiral shape hold onto the sauce perfectly, making every bite rich and cheesy. Shells or rotini also work well. The key is using pasta that can trap the creamy sauce inside and around each piece.

Options for Substitutions

If white cheddar isn’t your thing or you want to mix it up, try a blend of cheeses. Gruyère adds a nutty depth, Monterey Jack keeps things ultra-creamy, and mozzarella brings extra stretch. For a dairy-free version, swap in your favorite plant-based butter, milk, and shredded cheese alternatives. Gluten-free pasta also works well—just be mindful of cooking times.

Ingredients for this Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

Cavatappi pasta: Its spiral shape and ridges make it ideal for holding onto creamy sauces, giving each bite extra flavor and texture.

Unsalted butter: Used to start the roux, which thickens the cheese sauce and gives it a rich, smooth base.

All-purpose flour: Whisked with butter to make a roux, it helps thicken the sauce and keeps it from being too runny.

Whole milk: Gives the sauce its creamy consistency and body. The higher fat content enhances the richness.

Heavy cream: Adds luxurious silkiness to the cheese sauce and deepens the creamy texture.

White cheddar cheese (sharp): The star of the show—its sharp flavor brings depth and tang while melting beautifully into the sauce.

Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the pasta and cheese sauce. Adjust to taste.

Ground mustard or mustard powder: Optional, but adds a subtle tang that enhances the cheese flavor.

Fresh parsley (optional): A pop of color and freshness to finish the dish.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cavatappi pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1–2 minutes until the mixture is golden and smells slightly nutty. This forms the roux, which will thicken your sauce.

Step 3: Add the Milk and Cream

Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture, whisking frequently, until it begins to thicken, about 4–6 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Reduce heat to low. Gradually stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese until it melts completely and the sauce is smooth. If you’re using mustard powder, whisk it in now. Taste and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly. If the sauce seems too thick, stir in a splash or two of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Spoon the mac and cheese into bowls or serve it straight from the pot. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and extra black pepper, if desired. Serve hot and creamy!

How Long to Prepare the Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

Prep Time: The preparation involves gathering your ingredients, shredding the cheese, and measuring everything out. This usually takes around 10–15 minutes if you’re organized. Shredding the cheese fresh (rather than using pre-shredded) makes a big difference in creaminess.

Cooking Time: Cooking the pasta and preparing the cheese sauce takes another 20–25 minutes. The roux comes together quickly, but allowing the milk and cheese to fully blend and thicken takes a bit of patience for the best results. Altogether, you can have this dish on the table in under 40 minutes.

Tips for Perfect Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

Always shred your cheese from a block—pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce texture.
Use a combination of whole milk and heavy cream for the silkiest, most luxurious sauce.
Stir the cheese in slowly over low heat to prevent it from becoming grainy.
Reserve some pasta water—just a splash can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Taste and adjust seasoning as you go. White cheddar can be sharp, so balancing with salt and cream is key.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the pasta: Remember, it will continue to cook a bit in the hot sauce. Stick to al dente.
Adding cheese too fast or on high heat: This can cause curdling or a gritty texture.
Skipping the roux step: This leads to a watery or separated sauce that won’t cling to the pasta.
Using cold milk or cream: It can shock the roux—always use room temperature dairy if possible.
Not seasoning enough: Cheese adds flavor, but it needs support from salt, pepper, and a touch of mustard.

What to Serve With Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese?

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli

The roasted flavor cuts through the creaminess and brings a great texture contrast.

2. Crispy Bacon or Pancetta

Add it on top or mix it in. The salty, crunchy bite is magic with melty cheese.

3. Simple Green Salad with Vinaigrette

A tangy, fresh salad helps balance the richness of the mac and cheese.

4. Grilled Chicken

A protein-packed side that complements without overpowering.

5. Tomato Soup

Sounds unconventional, but the creamy-cheesy pasta and acidic, savory soup work surprisingly well together.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator: Store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Let it cool fully before sealing to avoid condensation.

Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to bring back the creamy consistency. You can also microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring between each one.

Freezing: This dish isn’t ideal for freezing as the cheese sauce can separate upon thawing, but if needed, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with added cream or milk.

Estimated Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: ~420
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 15g
Sodium: 370mg
Cholesterol: 75mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cheese instead of white cheddar?

Absolutely. While white cheddar is the star, you can blend it with mozzarella, Gruyère, or even a little Parmesan for extra complexity.

How do I keep the sauce from getting grainy?

Add cheese slowly over low heat and avoid overheating. Freshly shredded cheese also helps the sauce stay smooth.

Is it okay to bake this mac and cheese?

Yes! If you want a baked version, pour it into a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs and a bit more cheese, and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until golden.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and pasta separately and store them. Combine and heat when ready to serve, loosening with a splash of milk.

What kind of milk works best?

Whole milk is ideal for the richest flavor, but 2% can also work. Avoid skim milk—it won’t give you the creamy texture you want.

Conclusion

Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort dish—warm, rich, and incredibly satisfying. It’s easy enough for weeknights but special enough for guests, and with just a few quality ingredients, you get a truly unforgettable bowl of goodness. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for the boxed version.