As a pitmaster with a passion for comfort food, I’m excited to share my take on the Noodles & Company Mac and Cheese recipe. This creamy, cheesy dish is a perfect blend of rich flavors and textures that will become a staple in your household.
With a few simple ingredients and some straightforward instructions, you’ll be able to create a creamy mac and cheese that’s sure to satisfy your comfort food cravings. Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Noodles and Company Mac and Cheese
Gather these simple ingredients to create a rich, Noodles & Company-inspired mac and cheese.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Elbow Macaroni 🍝 | 8 oz | High-quality, durum wheat |
| Unsalted Butter 🧈 | 4 tbsp | For roux, cold from fridge |
| All-Purpose Flour 🌾 | 2 tbsp | For thickening, sifted |
| Whole Milk 🥛 | 2 cups | Cold, for creaminess |
| Cheddar Cheese 🧀 | 2 cups | Sharp or extra-sharp, grated |
| Gruyère Cheese 🧀 | 1 cup | Grated, for nutty flavor |
| Parmesan Cheese 🧀 | ½ cup | Freshly grated, for umami |
| Salt 🧂 | 1 tsp | Kosher or sea salt, to taste |
| Black Pepper 🌶️ | ¼ tsp | Freshly ground, to taste |
| Paprika 🌶️ | ¼ tsp | Optional, for color |
| Garlic Powder 🧄 | ¼ tsp | For depth, not garlic salt |
[recipe_ingredient_scaler]
The cheese blend makes this mac and cheese special. Cabot or Cabot Clothbound cheddar gives the best flavor—sharp or extra-sharp works best. Gruyère adds that signature nutty taste, while Parmesan brings umami. I usually grab my cheese at Whole Foods or a good local cheese shop. Don’t be shy with the cheese—it’s what makes this dish so indulgent.
No Gruyère? You can swap in other Swiss-style cheeses or even more cheddar. The paprika on top is optional, but it adds a nice color and subtle smokiness. If you’re feeling fancy, add some truffle salt or a sprinkle of fresh thyme. For an extra-creamy sauce, use full-fat milk and don’t skimp on the butter. You can also make this with different pasta shapes if you prefer—just adjust cooking time accordingly.
This mac and cheese reheats beautifully—keeps for 4-5 days in the fridge. To reheat, add a splash of milk and bake at 350°F until warm and bubbly. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Mac and Cheese Perfection
Let’s create that restaurant-quality mac and cheese with perfectly cooked pasta and a rich, creamy sauce.
Step 1: Cook the Elbow Macaroni to Al Dente Perfection
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. I use about 1 tablespoon of salt for every 4 cups of water to enhance the pasta’s flavor. Add the 8 oz Elbow Macaroni and cook until it’s al dente, which means it should still have a bit of bite or chew to it. This usually takes around 7-8 minutes, but always check the package instructions for the most accurate timing. Once done, reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the macaroni. This starchy water is crucial for achieving the perfect sauce consistency later.
While the pasta cooks, prepare your cheese sauce. The key to a great mac and cheese is having all your ingredients ready to go before you start making the sauce, as it comes together quickly.
Step 2: Make the Roux and Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth roux. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it turns a light golden color and has a nutty aroma. Be careful not to let it brown too much, as this can affect the flavor of your sauce.
Slowly pour in the 2 cups Whole Milk, whisking vigorously to avoid any lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove the saucepan from the heat and start adding the cheese. Begin with the 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, stirring until it’s fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Then add the 1 cup Gruyère Cheese and 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese, stirring until fully incorporated. Season with 1 tsp Salt, 0.25 tsp Black Pepper, 0.25 tsp Paprika, and 0.25 tsp Garlic Powder. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 3: Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is well coated. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency. The sauce should be creamy and cling to the pasta without being too runny. Transfer the mac and cheese to a serving dish or individual ramekins if you prefer a baked finish.
For an extra crispy top, you can sprinkle additional grated cheese on top and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Dietary Considerations for This noodles and company mac and cheese
Making It Gluten-Free
To make this mac and cheese gluten-free, start by substituting the regular elbow macaroni with a high-quality gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa. Be sure to check the package for specific cooking instructions, as gluten-free pasta can vary in cooking time. I recommend brands like Barilla Gluten-Free or Banza for their texture and flavor.
Adapting the Roux
For the roux, replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. This helps maintain the sauce’s thickness and texture. Some good options include Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free 1:1 Baking Flour or King Arthur Gluten-Free Multi-Purpose Flour. Whisk the gluten-free flour into the melted butter thoroughly to avoid lumps.
Dairy-Free Cheese Alternatives
If you’re making this dish dairy-free, you’ll need to replace the cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses. I recommend using plant-based cheese alternatives that melt well, such as those from Daiya or Follow Your Heart. These brands offer a range of flavors that can mimic the creaminess of dairy cheese. You can also experiment with nutritional yeast to achieve a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Modifying for Vegan Diets
To make this mac and cheese vegan, combine the gluten-free pasta with dairy-free cheese alternatives. You can also add some vegan bacon bits or roasted vegetables to enhance the flavor. Be sure to check the ingredient labels to ensure all components are vegan-friendly. For an extra creamy texture, consider adding a splash of non-dairy milk or a dollop of vegan sour cream.
Additional Tips for Dietary Modifications
For those watching their calorie intake, you can lighten this dish by using reduced-fat cheese or low-fat milk. If you’re looking to boost the protein content, consider adding cooked chicken, steamed broccoli, or a scoop of your favorite protein powder to the mac and cheese. To add a bit of spice, a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes can give this comfort food a nice kick. 🌶️
Storage and Reheating
This mac and cheese reheats beautifully, making it a great make-ahead meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or non-dairy milk to loosen the sauce, then bake at 350°F until warm and bubbly. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. ❄️
Nutrition Facts
Trained in classic French technique but raised on slow-cooked ribs and spicy rubs, she blends culinary skill with smoke and soul.
- Recipe for Boneless Pork Chops in Cast Iron Skillet: Sear and Baste to Juicy Perfection - October 3, 2026
- Recipe for Boneless Cross Rib Roast: Slow-Roasted Beef with Herb Crust - October 3, 2026
- Hamburgers in Sauce Recipe Crock Pot: Slow-Cooked Savory Delight - October 3, 2026