20-Minute Stovetop White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe

This 20-Minute Stovetop White Cheddar Mac and Cheese is the kind of meal you whip up when time is tight but comfort food is calling your name. Creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying, this quick mac and cheese comes together in one pot and delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Made with sharp white cheddar and a few pantry staples, it’s a dream for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or anytime you just want something rich, melty, and downright irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Effortless: This mac and cheese is ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish. No baking. No fuss. Just stovetop simplicity.
• Ultra Creamy and Cheesy: The white cheddar brings a bold, tangy richness that’s a step above your average mac. It melts beautifully for a luxuriously smooth sauce.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a last-minute dinner, a cozy side dish, or a comfort food craving, this dish delivers every time.
• One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes, faster cleanup—what’s not to love?

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Elbow Macaroni: The classic shape that holds onto all that creamy cheese sauce. Shells or cavatappi are great alternatives too.
• Butter: Helps create a rich roux as the base of the sauce.
• All-Purpose Flour: Used to thicken the cheese sauce without making it gloopy.
• Whole Milk: Delivers creaminess and helps the sauce coat the pasta evenly.
• Heavy Cream: Adds luxurious richness. You can use half-and-half if preferred.
• White Cheddar Cheese: The star of the show—sharp and melty with tons of flavor. Use a block and grate it yourself for the best texture.
• Salt and Pepper: To balance and enhance the flavors. Season to taste.
• Garlic Powder and Mustard Powder: Just a pinch of each for depth and a subtle kick. Optional, but highly recommended.

Variations

• Add a Protein: Stir in cooked bacon bits, shredded rotisserie chicken, or diced ham for a heartier dish.
• Sneak in Veggies: Fold in steamed broccoli, peas, or even sautéed spinach for some color and nutrients.
• Different Cheeses: Try a mix of cheeses like Gruyère, fontina, or mozzarella with the white cheddar for a deeper flavor profile.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne or a few dashes of hot sauce to give it some heat.

How to Make 20-Minute Stovetop White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your macaroni according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Roux

In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it forms a smooth paste with a slightly nutty aroma.

Step 3: Add Milk and Cream

Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken—this takes about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the white cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, until melted and velvety. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard powder, if using.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta back into the pot and toss to coat every piece in the luscious cheese sauce. Stir until everything is evenly combined and heated through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon it into bowls, top with extra cheese or a sprinkle of parsley if desired, and dig in!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. For the creamiest sauce, use freshly grated white cheddar.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep it just al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Low and Slow for Melting: Once you add the cheese, keep the heat low to prevent it from separating or turning gritty.
• Thin the Sauce if Needed: If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of warm milk until it reaches your desired consistency.

How to Serve

This white cheddar mac and cheese is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:

Proteins:

Serve alongside grilled chicken, pork chops, or baked fish for a balanced meal.

Greens:

A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy pasta.

Toppings:

Try topping with crispy breadcrumbs, crumbled bacon, or a drizzle of truffle oil for an upscale twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the mac and cheese cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freezing is possible, but the texture may change slightly. For best results, freeze in individual portions and reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Reheating

Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring in a little milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cheese for this recipe?
You can, but it’s not ideal. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking additives that prevent it from melting smoothly, so you won’t get that ultra-creamy texture. Grating fresh white cheddar is absolutely worth the extra minute.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

Can I make this recipe without cream?
Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with more whole milk or even half-and-half. Just keep in mind the sauce will be a little lighter and less rich.

Why is my cheese sauce grainy?
This usually happens when the heat is too high or the cheese is added too quickly. Always lower the heat before adding the cheese and stir constantly to ensure a smooth sauce.

Final Thoughts

This 20-Minute Stovetop White Cheddar Mac and Cheese is everything comfort food should be—fast, creamy, satisfying, and loaded with flavor. It’s a go-to recipe for when you need something delicious in a hurry, and it’s endlessly customizable to match your cravings. Try it once, and it just might become your new favorite way to do mac and cheese.

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