Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe (Stovetop Method)

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious homemade mac and cheese recipe, this creamy white cheddar version will surely become your favorite. Made on the stovetop with simple ingredients, it’s rich, cheesy, and perfect for any meal.

white cheddar mac and cheese in a bowl

White Cheddar Mac and Cheese: A Family Favorite

There’s something about a warm bowl of homemade mac and cheese that brings comfort. The smooth, velvety sauce made with sharp white cheddar cheese pairs perfectly with pasta, creating a dish everyone loves. This easy stovetop recipe comes together quickly and is a great addition to any dinner.

ingredients to make white cheddar mac and cheese

What You’ll Need

This recipe uses basic ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you need to make this creamy mac and cheese:

  • Pasta: Elbow macaroni works best, but you can use your favorite pasta shape.
  • Butter: Adds richness to the sauce.
  • Flour: Helps thicken the sauce when combined with butter.
  • Whole Milk: Gives the sauce its creamy texture. Avoid using skim milk for this recipe.
  • Ground Mustard Powder: A secret ingredient that adds depth to the flavor.
  • Cheese: Sharp white cheddar is the star here, but you can mix in other cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack.
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste.
homemade mac and cheese in a dutch oven

How to Make Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious side of mac and cheese ready in no time! The full recipe is at the bottom of the post.

  • Start by boiling your pasta in salted water until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Grate the cheese. Freshly grated cheese is key to a smooth sauce. Avoid pre-shredded cheese, which can result in a gritty texture.
  • Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat. Stir in the flour to form a roux, then gradually add the milk while whisking continuously. Cook the sauce until it thickens, about 4-5 minutes.
  • Lower the heat, stir in the mustard powder. Add the grated cheese, stirring until it’s fully melted and smooth.
  • Mix the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Then, season with salt and pepper.
  • Serve hot for the best results. This mac and cheese pairs well with roasted chicken, pulled pork, or any main dish you love.
homemade mac and cheese on a spoon

Recipe Tips for the Best Mac and Cheese

  • Go for Sharp Cheddar: Opt for sharp or extra sharp cheddar for the best flavor.
  • Grate Your Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-packaged shredded cheese.
  • Use Whole Milk: For a creamy sauce, whole milk works best.

FAQs

What is Bechamel Sauce? It’s a simple white sauce made with butter, flour, and milk, which is the base for many creamy dishes, such as mac and cheese.

Can I Use Yellow Cheddar? Yes! The only difference between white and yellow cheddar is the coloring, so feel free to use either.

How to Reheat Mac and Cheese on the Stovetop

To reheat mac and cheese on the stovetop, place it in a saucepan and add milk or cream to restore its creamy texture. Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking or drying. Continue until the mac and cheese is warmed through and smooth, ensuring it’s just as delicious as when it was freshly made.

homemade macaroni and cheese on a wooden spoon

Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese (Easy Stovetop Recipe)

Are you looking for the best homemade white cheddar mac and cheese recipe? This stovetop recipe will become your go-to for a quick, delicious side dish!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Serving Size 6

Ingredients

  • cup salted butter
  • cup all purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • ½ tsp ground mustard
  • 1 ½ cup sharp white cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup Le Gruyere cheese
  • ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese
  • salt + pepper
  • 3 cups of macaroni noodles

Instructions

  • To start, bring a dutch oven or big pot of salted water to a rapid boil. Once boiling, add your shell noodles and cook until they reach al dente – about 4 minutes. Once cooked, drain pasta and set aside.
  • Grate the cheese. It is important to use freshly grated cheese for making mac and cheese for it to be extra creamy. Avoid pre-shredded and bagged cheese, as they contain starch and preservatives that can make the sauce gritty.
  • In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat until melted. Add in the flour and continue to whisk, constantly cooking until the mixture turns a light brown.
  • Reduce heat to low and gradually add in the milk. The mixture will look lumpy and thick at first but continue whisking, and the mixture will thin out as you add the rest of the milk.
  • Increase the heat back to medium and cook the mixture for another 4-5 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
  • Reduce the heat to low and add ground mustard.
  • Add the grated cheese and stir until melted; however, do not let it boil, as this will cause the cheese to become gritty.
  • To finish, pour the cooked pasta noodles into the cheese sauce and combine until the noodles are evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • This creamy white cheddar mac and cheese is best served hot.

About Sarah

Wife. Mother. From-Scratch Cook. Homemaker.

I’m Sarah, the creator of Rocky Hedge Farm, where I share my love for simple living, homemade meals, and creating a cozy home. As a wife and mother, I’m passionate about slowing down, cooking from scratch, and finding joy in the everyday moments of life. From DIY projects and family-friendly recipes, I hope to inspire others to embrace a life rooted in simplicity and warmth.

Thank you for sharing!

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One Comment

  1. This looks delicious. Sounds very much like my mom’s Mac n cheese. She never used recipes, so I could never ask her for it. 😊 looking forward to making a some comfort food. Thank you for sharing your yummy recipes, gardening/planting tips for flowers, home renovations(from past years) and decorating helps. Love your blog.
    Enjoy your weekend.