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Chilis White Cheddar Cac and Cheese Recipe

Chilis White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe

A creamy, rich, and comforting white cheddar mac and cheese inspired by the restaurant favorite. Tender macaroni is coated in a smooth cheese sauce made with white cheddar, cream cheese, and Parmesan, then baked until golden and bubbly.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 People
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni or any short pasta
  • 2 cups whole milk for creamy sauce
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • 2 cups sharp white cheddar cheese freshly grated
  • 1.5 cups sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
  • 1 cup pepper jack cheese freshly grated
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter for greasing baking dish
  • 1 tsp garlic powder seasoning
  • 1 tsp onion powder seasoning
  • 1 tsp dry mustard powder enhances cheese flavor
  • 1 tsp white pepper mild spice
  • 1 tsp chicken bouillon powder optional
  • to taste
  • salt and black pepper adjust seasoning

Equipment

  • 1 Large pot For boiling pasta
  • 1 Colander To drain pasta
  • 1 Medium saucepan For making cheese sauce
  • 1 Large mixing bowl To combine pasta and sauce
  • 1 Wooden spoon or spatula For stirring sauce
  • 1 Cheese grater For freshly grating cheese
  • 1 9×13 baking dish For baking mac and cheese
  • 1 Measuring cups and spoons For accurate measurements

Method
 

Step 1
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish with unsalted butter and set it aside.
    Chilis White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 2
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
    Chilis White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 3
  1. Drain the pasta using a colander and set it aside while preparing the cheese sauce.
    Chilis White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 4
  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, warm the whole milk. Add the softened cream cheese and stir until it melts into the milk.
    Chilis White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 5
  1. Add garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard powder, white pepper, and chicken bouillon powder. Stir well to combine.
    Chilis White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 6
  1. Lower the heat and gradually add the white cheddar, cheddar, and pepper jack cheese while stirring constantly until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
    Chilis White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 7
  1. Stir in most of the grated Parmesan cheese, reserving a small amount for the topping.
    Chilis White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 8
  1. Place the cooked macaroni in a large bowl and pour the cheese sauce over it. Mix gently until all the pasta is evenly coated.
    Chilis White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 9
  1. Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
    Chilis White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 10
  1. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan and extra shredded cheese on top.
    Chilis White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 11
  1. Bake for 25–30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
    Chilis White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 12
  1. Remove from the oven and allow the mac and cheese to rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
    Chilis White Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe

Notes

For the creamiest sauce, always grate cheese fresh from a block instead of using pre-shredded cheese. If reheating leftovers, add a small splash of milk and warm slowly to bring back the smooth, creamy texture.