Noodles & Company Wisconsin Mac & Cheese Copycat
My Noodles & Company Wisconsin Mac & Cheese copycat doesn’t miss a thing. Make this super easy, extra cheesy delight in 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups half & half
- 6 ounces cheddar cheese shredded (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 6 ounces monterey jack cheese shredded (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- Additional shredded cheddar and monterey jack cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the elbow macaroni according to package instructions for al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, cooking for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
- Add the Half & Half: Gradually whisk in the half & half, ensuring no lumps form. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Melt the Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and monterey jack cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season the Sauce: Stir in the ground mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
- Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until evenly coated.
- Garnish & Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with additional shredded cheddar and monterey jack cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Half & Half is an American ingredient made of half heavy cream and half whole milk. If necessary, you can substitute accordingly.
Make-Ahead Tips: The cheese sauce can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before combining with pasta.
Storage: Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This mac and cheese is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or half & half to restore creaminess.
Customization Ideas: Try different cheese blends like Gruyère, fontina, or mozzarella. Add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce for extra spice. Stir in bacon bits, sautéed onions, or diced tomatoes for more texture and flavor.
Nutrition
Serving: 1 | Calories: 707cal | Carbohydrates: 65g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 37g | Saturated Fat: 22g | Cholesterol: 106mg | Sodium: 822mg | Sugar: 7g | Fiber: 3g | Calcium: 561mg | Iron: 1mg