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This post is all about White Cheddar & Chive Mac and Cheese Recipe.
This creamy white cheddar and chive mac and cheese is a delicious twist on the classic comfort food. The sharpness of white cheddar combined with fresh chives creates a rich and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion.
The recipe is simple to follow and can be made in under an hour making it a great choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.
Comforting Creaminess
White cheddar and chive mac and cheese is a delightful twist on the traditional dish, offering a creamy texture that comforts the soul. The combination of sharp white cheddar and fresh chives creates a rich flavor profile that elevates this classic comfort food.
Perfectly cooked elbow macaroni serves as the base, enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce that brings warmth and satisfaction. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors, making it an ideal choice for both casual dinners and special gatherings.
Simple Preparation Steps
This dish is surprisingly easy to prepare, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish. Begin by cooking the elbow macaroni until it reaches the perfect al dente texture. This ensures that the pasta holds up well when mixed with the cheese sauce.
While the pasta cooks, you can whip up the cheese sauce. Melt butter in a pot, whisk in flour, and gradually add milk until the mixture thickens. Stir in the shredded white cheddar until it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce. The addition of garlic and onion powder enhances the flavor, making every mouthful a delight.
Chive Infusion
Fresh chives are a key ingredient that adds a burst of color and a mild onion flavor to the dish. After combining the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, fold in the chopped chives for an extra layer of taste.
This step not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful green hue, making the dish visually appealing. The vibrant chives contrast beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce, inviting you to dig in.
Optional Toppings for Texture
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, consider adding a breadcrumb topping. Mixing breadcrumbs with olive oil and broiling them for a few minutes creates a golden, crispy layer that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta.
This optional step elevates the dish further, providing a delightful textural contrast that complements the softness of the mac and cheese. A sprinkle of additional chives on top can enhance the presentation, making it even more inviting.
Serving Suggestions
When serving this mac and cheese, consider using rustic bowls that highlight its comfort food appeal. A fork resting beside the bowl adds to the inviting atmosphere, perfect for a cozy meal at home.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, balancing the richness of the mac and cheese. Whether enjoyed on a weeknight or at a gathering with friends, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this creamy white cheddar and chive mac and cheese provides a satisfying meal with approximately 450 calories. It contains 22 grams of fat and 18 grams of protein, making it a hearty option for any occasion.
With its comforting flavors and straightforward preparation, this dish is a fantastic addition to your recipe collection, perfect for any cheese lover looking for a cozy meal.
Easy White Cheddar & Chive Mac and Cheese Recipe
This mac and cheese features al dente pasta coated in a velvety cheese sauce made with white cheddar and enhanced with fresh chives. The dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture thickens.
- Add Cheese: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Mix in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated. Fold in the chopped chives.
- Optional Topping: If desired, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle over the mac and cheese. Broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Spoon the mac and cheese into bowls and garnish with additional chives if desired. Serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
