Easy And Creamy White Cheddar Mac And Cheese
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food, look no further than this white cheddar mac and cheese. Be it cozy dinners, family gatherings, or even a holiday side, this dish is always a winner!
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Cook Time 40 minutes mins
Total Time 45 minutes mins
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine Italian
For cooking Pasta:
- Water
- 1½ tsp Oil
- 250 g Macaroni pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add oil, and cook the macaroni according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and saute for 30 seconds.
Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden.
Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure there are no lumps.
Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and red chili flakes, and cook for 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated. Cover the saucepan for 5 minutes to let the pasta soak the sauce completely.
Serve immediately and enjoy the gooey, creamy perfection of white cheddar mac and cheese.
- For Extra Creaminess: Substitute some of the milk with heavy cream for an ultra-luxury texture. You can also add parmesan along with cheddar during the cooking process.
- Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle crushed breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter over the mac and cheese and broil until golden brown.
- Protein Boost: Make it a heartier meal by adding cooked chicken, bacon, or shrimp, making the pasta more protein-heavy.
- Veggie Add-Ins: Stir in steamed broccoli, roasted red peppers, or sautéed mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
How to store:
In the Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
In the Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above.
Meal Prep: Prepare the pasta and cheese sauce separately and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, combine and heat on the stovetop. Add a dash of milk for some consistency.