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Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese: Ultimate Comfort Awaits

Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese brings nostalgic flavors to the table, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Elbow Macaroni Substitute with gluten-free pasta if desired.
For the Cheese Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter Can be replaced with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Use cornstarch as a gluten-free thickener if needed.
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Swap with dairy-free milk if lactose intolerant.
  • 2 cups Shredded White Cheddar Cheese Replace with sharp cheddar for a different flavor.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Consider gouda for a smoky taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Use fresh garlic for a more robust flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Substitute with finely minced onion if desired.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper
  • optional Cayenne Pepper Adjust cayenne for preferred spice level.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Breadcrumbs Panko is great for extra crispiness.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be used as a vegan alternative.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • large saucepan
  • Whisk
  • baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, around 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
  3. Gradually pour in the milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Stir over medium heat until thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the cheeses until melted.
  4. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well to combine.
  5. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your baking dish.
  7. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish and pour the macaroni mixture into it, smoothing the surface.
  8. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
  10. Let cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 400mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For a crispy topping, broil for 1-2 minutes after baking. Store leftovers in airtight containers. Reheat with a splash of milk.

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