Description
If you’re craving a quick, creamy, and unforgettable comfort food, this Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese is your answer. Silky, cheesy, and rich with sharp white cheddar, this dish brings the perfect balance of flavor and indulgence without requiring hours in the kitchen. Ideal for a quick dinner, easy recipe, or even hearty lunch ideas, this mac and cheese hits all the right notes. Whether you’re making it as a side dish or the star of the meal, it’s an absolute winner for all ages.
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)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook cavatappi pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens—about 4–6 minutes.
4. Lower the heat and stir in shredded white cheddar cheese gradually until smooth. Whisk in mustard powder if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stir in cooked pasta. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra black pepper if desired.
Notes
Shred the cheese from a block for a smoother, meltier sauce.
Don’t skip the roux—it’s key to getting a creamy consistency.
Pasta water can help thin the sauce if it thickens too much.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 370mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: creamy mac and cheese, white cheddar, easy dinner, comfort food, quick meals