Description
This White Mac and Cheese is a delightful blend of creamy white cheddar sauce and crispy Ritz topping, perfect for busy weeknights and special dinners. Enjoy a bowl of comfort food that’s quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious!
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 ounces cavatappi pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half and half
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 3 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a baking dish with nonstick spray.
- Cook cavatappi pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain.
- Melt butter in a saucepan; whisk in flour until smooth to create a roux.
- Gradually add half and half and evaporated milk, stirring until thickened.
- Stir in white cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until melted and smooth.
- Combine cheese sauce with pasta in a large bowl, ensuring pasta is well-coated.
- Transfer mixed pasta and sauce into the prepared baking dish, topping with more cheese if desired.
- Combine crushed Ritz with melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown and edges are bubbling.
Notes
For extra flavor, consider adding cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables to the mix.
Mix different cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda for a unique taste.
Ensure the roux is fully cooked to avoid a lumpy cheese sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg