Homemade Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you're craving some comfort food that’s easy to whip up, this creamy white cheddar mac and cheese recipe is for you! With rich white cheddar, a touch of heat, and a velvety sauce that clings to each bite, it’s bound to become a favorite. Plus, it's so, so easy to make. Just a handful of steps are all you have to follow to make it.

Why I Love This White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

This white cheddar mac and cheese recipe has a special place in my heart because it’s a dish that brings back so many great memories. I actually got this recipe from my best friend’s mom, who would make it for us whenever I stayed over for a sleepover. The creamy, cheesy goodness was something we would look forward to every time - it was her signature dish.

What I love most about it is how rich and flavorful the white cheddar makes the sauce. It's creamy, a little tangy, and just so comforting. It's just soooo yummy

Whenever I make this dish now, I like to share it with family or friends during cozy get-togethers. It’s perfect for when you want to serve something simple yet indulgent, and I swear it always disappears almost immediately after it hits the dinner table. There’s something about that creamy sauce and tender pasta that just hits the spot every time—it's truly become one of my go-to comfort meals.

Ingredients

Here's what you'll need to make this creamy stovetop white cheddar mac and cheese recipe:

• 8 oz elbow pasta
• 2 tablespoon butter
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• ½ cup whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon yellow mustard
• ⅛ teaspoon hot sauce
• 1 cup white cheddar, grated

How to Make the Best White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

Again, just a handful of steps are all you have to follow to make this recipe. On top of that, all you need is one pot to make this white cheddar mac and cheese. So there's no fancy equipment needed!

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the elbow pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 1 minute until golden and smooth.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps. Add salt, black pepper, mustard, and hot sauce. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in the grated white cheddar until fully melted and creamy.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta & Serve

Add the cooked pasta back into the pot, stirring until every noodle is coated. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken, then serve hot.

My Expert Tips for Making Perfect White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

1. Use freshly grated cheese: For the creamiest sauce, always opt for freshly grated cheese. Pre-shredded cheeses are coated with anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting and can lead to a grainy texture.
2. Cook pasta al dente: Undercook the pasta slightly, as it will continue to cook when combined with the hot cheese sauce. This prevents it from becoming too soft and mushy.
3. Add a splash of pasta water: Reserve a bit of the pasta cooking water before draining. If your sauce ends up too thick, adding a splash of this starchy water will loosen it up without thinning out the flavor.
4. Don’t overheat the cheese sauce: When adding the cheese, reduce the heat to low to prevent the sauce from breaking. High heat can cause the cheese to separate, resulting in an oily sauce.
5. Make it your own: Feel free to add mix-ins like crispy bacon, roasted veggies, or even a handful of breadcrumbs on top before broiling for a crunchy finish. It’s a great way to customize the dish!

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to bring back its creaminess.

How to Reheat

For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add a bit of milk if needed to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQ's About This Recipe

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! White cheddar is great, but you can substitute with Gruyere, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Absolutely. Substitute the pasta with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

What can I serve with mac and cheese?

Over the years, I’ve discovered that adding a side or two can truly elevate this creamy dish, especially when serving it to friends and family.

Here are my top 3 things to serve with this mac and cheese:

1. Garlic Butter Broccoli: There's just something about the combination of creamy white cheddar with the crisp, garlicky bite of broccoli. I usually sauté fresh broccoli in butter and minced garlic until it’s tender-crisp. It not only adds a pop of color but also balances out the richness of the mac and cheese. I love how the broccoli soaks up the extra cheesy sauce on my plate.
2. Tangy Arugula Salad: As rich and creamy as white cheddar mac and cheese is, sometimes you need something fresh to cut through all that cheesiness. Enter a zesty arugula salad. I toss the peppery greens with lemon juice, olive oil, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. It was my mom’s way of balancing heavier dishes, and I have to admit, she's onto something. The bright, tangy flavors of the salad refresh your palate, making each forkful of mac and cheese taste just as exciting as the first.
3. Buttery Cornbread: There’s just something about the crumbly, buttery texture of cornbread that complements the smooth, rich sauce of white cheddar mac and cheese. I picked up this tradition from a close family friend who would bake cornbread whenever we had a potluck. The slight sweetness of the cornbread paired with the cheesy pasta is pure comfort food bliss. Oh, and don't sleep on using the cornbread to mop up any leftover cheese sauce.
4. Longhorn Steakhouse Bread: Making some of this bread to go along with the mac and cheese is an absolute game-changer! Seriously, there's just something about dunking the soft, slightly sweet bread into the creamy, tangy sauce that’s just so satisfying. The crispy crust of the bread adds that extra crunch you need alongside the smooth, cheesy pasta. Plus, let’s be honest—who doesn’t love using a good piece of bread to soak up every last bit of cheese sauce?

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Can I freeze mac and cheese?

Yes, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This homemade white cheddar mac and cheese is everything you crave in comfort food. It's easy to make, it's packed with rich flavors, and it’s perfect for family dinners or a solo comfort meal. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out in the comments!

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