White cheddar mac and cheese Like You’ve Never Made Before – It’s a Game Changer!

One-Pan White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe

If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes, then this One-Pan White Cheddar Mac and Cheese is a must-try. It is a delightful combination of creamy white cheddar cheese and macaroni, paired with the savory crunch of breadcrumbs and bacon bits. The addition of fresh chives elevates this dish to gourmet status. The best part? It all comes together in just one pan, making clean-up a breeze.

Yield

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients for White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

• 16 ounces of uncooked elbow macaroni
• 2 ½ cups of milk
• 2 cups of water
• 1 teaspoon of garlic salt
• ½ teaspoon of salt
• ¼ cup of margarine
• ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper
• 1 ½ cups of shredded white cheddar cheese
• ½ cup of shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
• ¼ cup of panko bread crumbs
• ¼ cup of real bacon bits
• 1 tablespoon of snipped fresh chives

Instructions for Making White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

1. Begin by placing a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the elbow macaroni, milk, and water into the skillet.
2. Season the mixture with garlic salt and salt. Stir to combine well and bring to a simmer.
3. Continue to simmer, stirring frequently until the pasta is cooked to your desired level of tenderness, around 8-10 minutes. Adjust heat to low if needed to prevent boiling over.
4. Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the margarine and ground black pepper. Mix well until margarine is completely melted.
5. Gradually add the shredded white cheddar cheese, stirring consistently until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
6. Sprinkle half of the shredded Parmesan cheese, mix, and remove from heat.
7. In a small bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, bacon bits, and the rest of the Parmesan cheese.
8. Scatter the bread crumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese. Allow it to sit for a few moments to create a slightly crispy topping.
9. Garnish with snipped chives before serving.

Healthier Cooking Option (Optional)

For a healthier alternative, consider using low-fat white cheddar cheese and almond milk instead of the regular variety. Additionally, using turkey bacon bits can reduce the overall calorie content. Cooking the mac and cheese with olive oil instead of margarine is another healthier swap.

Why You’ll Love This One-Pan White Cheddar Mac and Cheese

This dish is not only quick and easy but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of cheeses provides a rich and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the crispy seasoned topping. Moreover, the use of one pan helps to preserve those delicious flavors, ensuring each bite is bursting with indulgence. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal option or an impressive dish for a family gathering, this One-Pan White Cheddar Mac and Cheese has got you covered.

Try this recipe today and experience the delightful creamy textures and flavors!