Description
This White Mac and Cheese blends creamy white cheddar with cavatappi pasta, creating an irresistible comfort food that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 ounces cavatappi pasta
- 4 Tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half and half
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 3 cups white cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup Ritz crackers (crushed, about 20 crackers)
- 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare a baking dish.
- Cook cavatappi pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour; gradually add half and half and evaporated milk.
- Stir in garlic powder, salt, pepper, and cook until thickened; then add cheese until melted.
- Combine cooked pasta with cheese sauce and adjust seasoning.
- Transfer the mixture to the baking dish; top with crushed Ritz crackers mixed with melted butter.
- Bake for 15 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
For the creamiest texture, use freshly shredded cheese.
Consider adding extras like cooked bacon or broccoli for added flavor.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 4-5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg