Creamy White Cheddar Mac and Cheese is a quick and unforgettable comfort food. Silky and rich with sharp white cheddar, it balances flavor and indulgence without hours in the kitchen.
Author:Olivia
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:40 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Dish
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 lb cavatappi pasta
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1/4 tsp mustard powder (optional)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook cavatappi pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden.
Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens—about 4–6 minutes.
Lower the heat and stir in shredded white cheddar cheese gradually until smooth. Whisk in mustard powder if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Stir in cooked pasta. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra black pepper if desired.