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White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

Extra Creamy Stovetop White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe

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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 8 oz sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika (optional)

Method
 

  1. Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
  2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute.
  3. Slowly whisk in milk. Simmer 3-4 minutes until thickened. Reduce heat to low, add cheddar and cream cheese, and stir until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne if using.
  4. Add drained pasta to the sauce and toss until fully coated. Serve immediately.

Notes

The sauce is at its creamiest right after tossing, so serve it hot. If it thickens, a splash of warm milk will bring it back.