Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Classic White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.1 from 15 reviews

This Classic White Cheddar Mac and Cheese recipe is a creamy, comforting dish made with sharp white cheddar cheese and a smooth garlic-infused béchamel sauce. Perfectly cooked macaroni is coated in a rich, cheesy sauce enhanced with a hint of hot sauce for subtle spice, making it a delightful twist on a timeless favorite.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 lb Pasta (Macaroni or Shellbows)

Sauce

  • 3 tbsp Salted Butter
  • 5 Garlic Cloves (minced)
  • 2 tbsp All Purpose Flour
  • 2 cups Heavy Cream (room temperature if possible)
  • 1 cup Milk (room temperature if possible)
  • 3 cups Sharp White Cheddar Cheese (divided)
  • 1.5 tsp Franks Hot Sauce
  • Kosher Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Boil water in a large pot, adding generous pinches of salt. Add the pasta and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Sauté Garlic: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Cook for 2 minutes until softened but not browned.
  3. Make Roux: Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly to remove the raw flour taste.
  4. Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the milk followed by the heavy cream. Add a few pinches of salt, then reduce the heat to medium-low.
  5. Simmer Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and slightly reduces.
  6. Incorporate Cheese: Slowly whisk in 2 cups of the sharp white cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Reserve the remaining 1 cup of cheese.
  7. Add Hot Sauce and Season: Stir in the Frank's Hot Sauce. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
  8. Combine Pasta and Cheese: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and mix well. Stir in the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Serve the mac and cheese immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Using room temperature milk and cream helps prevent the sauce from curdling when added to the roux.
  • Do not overcook the pasta; it should be al dente as it will cook slightly more when mixed with the sauce.
  • Adjust hot sauce quantity according to your heat preference.
  • For a richer flavor, use sharp white cheddar but feel free to mix in other cheeses if desired.
  • Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy texture; the dish may thicken upon standing.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://avascooking.com/classic-white-cheddar-mac-and-cheese-recipe/