White Mac and Cheese Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy & Easy Comfort Food
White mac and cheese is a creamy, indulgent twist on the classic comfort dish, made with a rich white cheese sauce instead of traditional cheddar. Using a blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream, it delivers a silky, luxurious texture and flavor that melts in your mouth. This recipe is simple, satisfying, and comes together quickly, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, holidays, or family gatherings. Its versatility allows you to pair it with grilled meats, roasted veggies, or serve it as a decadent main course. With its creamy layers, white mac and cheese is the ultimate cozy meal.
Ingredients Of White Mac and Cheese Recipe
Why You Will Love This White Mac and Cheese Recipe
White mac and cheese is rich, creamy, and irresistible, offering a comforting twist on a classic favorite. The silky white cheese sauce coats every bite of pasta, creating a dish that feels both cozy and indulgent. It’s quick to prepare, customizable with different cheeses, and versatile enough to serve as a main dish or side. Perfect for weeknights, parties, or family meals, it’s a recipe that always satisfies cravings.
Preparation Process Of White Mac and Cheese Recipe
To prepare white mac and cheese, start by cooking pasta until al dente. In another pot, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux. Gradually add milk and cream, whisking until smooth. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan to create a creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Toss pasta with sauce until fully coated, then serve hot and fresh for the best flavor.
Step By Step Instructions
Cook Pasta
Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, then drain. Set aside to combine with cheese sauce later for the perfect creamy pasta dish.
Make Roux
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour, and cook briefly. This roux helps thicken the sauce and keeps it silky smooth every time.
Add Milk & Cream
Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth and slightly thickened. Keep stirring to prevent lumps, creating the rich base of your white cheese sauce.
Stir in Cheeses
Add mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring until fully melted. The mixture becomes velvety and creamy, making it the perfect sauce to coat your pasta evenly.
Season Sauce
Stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. This adds depth and enhances the creamy, cheesy flavor of the dish.
Combine & Serve
Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until well coated. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or herbs for a comforting and delicious meal.
How to Serve?
- Serve as a main dish with garlic bread
- Pair with roasted chicken or grilled steak
- Offer as a side with holiday dinners
- Top with breadcrumbs and bake for added crunch
Tips & Variations
Mix in spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.
Use Gruyère or fontina for a different cheese blend.
Spice it up with red pepper flakes or paprika.
Add cooked bacon or ham for smoky flavor.
Bake with a breadcrumb topping for extra texture.
Make it creamier with extra heavy cream.
Nutrition
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 16g
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 520mg
Recipe Card
White Mac and Cheese Recipe
Course: Mac and Cheese Recipe4 people
servings10
minutes20
minutes420
kcalWhite mac and cheese is a creamy, comforting recipe made with pasta and a luscious white cheese sauce. Using mozzarella, Parmesan, milk, and cream, it delivers a velvety, indulgent texture that elevates this family-favorite dish. Simple to prepare, it’s perfect as a quick main course or served alongside roasted meats and vegetables. Its versatility makes it suitable for everyday dinners or holiday feasts, and it can easily be customized with add-ins like bacon, spinach, or extra cheeses. With its rich flavor and creamy layers, white mac and cheese is a dish that promises warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients
Elbow macaroni
Butter
All-purpose flour
Whole milk
Heavy cream
Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Salt
Black pepper
Garlic powder
Nutmeg (optional)
Directions
- Cook Pasta
- Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, then drain. Set aside to combine with cheese sauce later for the perfect creamy pasta dish.
- Make Roux
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour, and cook briefly. This roux helps thicken the sauce and keeps it silky smooth every time.
- Add Milk & Cream
- Slowly whisk in milk and cream until smooth and slightly thickened. Keep stirring to prevent lumps, creating the rich base of your white cheese sauce.
- Stir in Cheeses
- Add mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring until fully melted. The mixture becomes velvety and creamy, making it the perfect sauce to coat your pasta evenly.
- Season Sauce
- Stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired. This adds depth and enhances the creamy, cheesy flavor of the dish.
- Combine & Serve
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until well coated. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or herbs for a comforting and delicious meal.
Recipe Video
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce.
- Avoid overcooking pasta to prevent mushiness.
- Serve immediately for the creamiest texture.
FAQs
Conclusion
White mac and cheese is a rich and creamy dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table. With its velvety white cheese sauce and tender pasta, it’s perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings. Simple to prepare yet indulgent, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite add-ins or toppings. Whether baked for a crispy finish or served straight from the pot, this recipe always satisfies. A timeless comfort food, white mac and cheese is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen, delivering warmth and cheesy goodness in every bite.
