Noodles & Company's Wisconsin Mac and Cheese is a beloved classic known for its creamy, cheesy goodness. It's my kids number one dish they ask for when we go, and i love they that they now offer a gluten free Wisconsin mac n' cheese for me too!

You can easily enjoy this comfort food favorite in the comfort of your own home. I'll guide you through a copycat recipe that recreates Noodles & Company's famous Wisconsin Mac and Cheese at home, allowing you to savor its deliciousness anytime you want! (And for a whole lot less money!)

A bowl of macaroni and cheese with a creamy cheddar cheese sauce and a sprinkling of paprika. The macaroni is elbow macaroni, and the cheese sauce is made with cheddar cheese, milk, butter, and flour. The paprika is sprinkled on top for garnish. This image could be used to illustrate a blog post about noodles and company copycat wisconsin mac and cheese.

The Secrets of Wisconsin Mac and Cheese

Before we dive into the recipe, let's uncover what makes this the best mac and cheese recipe. Noodles & Company's Wisconsin Mac and Cheese is exceptional! This dish embodies the cheese-loving spirit of Wisconsin, known as America's Dairyland, where high-quality cheese is a culinary hallmark.

What Makes this recipe the Best Mac and Cheese Recipe?

Cheese Selection:

Wisconsin Mac and Cheese is all about the cheese. High-quality cheddar is the star, typically a combination of sharp and mild cheddars for a balance of flavor and creaminess.

Pasta Shape

The pasta used is crucial for capturing the cheesy sauce. Elbow macaroni is the classic choice used by the restaurant. Other shapes like cavatappi or shells work well too.

Sauce

The creamy sauce is a blend of butter, milk, and, of course, cheese. Seasonings like salt, pepper, and paprika enhance the flavor, while optional ingredients like Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce add depth.

Toppings

To elevate the dish and make it the best mac and cheese recipe ever, consider adding toppings like breadcrumbs, crispy bacon bits, sautéed onions, or diced jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.

A close-up photograph of a creamy and golden-brown baked macaroni and cheese dish. The dish is served in a rectangular baking dish and has a crispy breadcrumb topping. The macaroni is coated in a velvety cheese sauce with visible shreds of cheddar cheese, and it's garnished with freshly chopped parsley. The dish looks savory and inviting, showcasing the rich and cheesy texture of Noodles & Company's Wisconsin Mac and Cheese.

Ingredients

Get ready for the creamiest, best macaroni! You will need:

Elbow macaroni
Butter
Flour
Milk
Cheddar cheese
Salt
Pepper
Paprika

Instructions

Boil the Pasta:

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Drain and set it aside.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce:

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Add the Milk:

Gradually pour in the milk while continuously stirring to combine it with the melted butter.

Incorporate the Cheese

Begin adding the shredded cheddar cheeses, one cup at a time, stirring until each cup melts and forms a smooth sauce. If you're using smoked cheddar for added complexity, add it here.

Season to Taste

Stir in the salt, black pepper, and paprika. Adjust the seasoning to your taste preference.

Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Gently fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated in cheese sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cheese should I use for the Wisconsin Mac and Cheese?

A blend of cheddar cheeses works best.

Can I use a different pasta shape besides elbow macaroni?

If you go to the restaurant, they use elbow macaroni, however you can use shapes like cavatappi, shells, or rotini. The key is to select a shape that can hold onto the cheese sauce.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming lumpy?

To prevent lumps, add the cheese gradually and stir constantly as it melts into the butter and milk mixture. This ensures a smooth sauce.

What are some topping ideas?

Besides breadcrumbs, you can top your mac and cheese with crumbled crispy bacon, sautéed onions, diced jalapeños, or even fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?

While mac and cheese is best when freshly made, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it in the oven or microwave. Just be aware that reheating may slightly alter the texture.

How do I store leftover mac and cheese?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat portions as needed.

Can I make this mac and cheese gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta and ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

What can I serve with Wisconsin Mac and Cheese to make a complete meal?

You can pair it with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or even some grilled chicken or sausage for a more substantial meal.

How can I make the mac and cheese sauce even creamier?

If you want an even creamier sauce, you can increase the amount of milk slightly or add a small amount of heavy cream while making the sauce.

Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy free?

yes, you can swap out dairy free ingredients. Just know it may alter the taste of the recipe a little. But still delicious!

Can I use my pressure cooker to cook macaroni and cheese?

Yes! Place your noodles, water and a little salt in your pressure cooker and cook for five minutes. When the timer is up, release the pressure then drain any extra liquid.

Serve

Serve the best mac and cheese recipe ever! It's time to eat! We love mac and cheese so much! If you love this recipe, try some other great best mac and cheese recipes! This four ingredient macaroni and cheese is perfect for busy nights. We love some game time baked macaroni and cheese balls. And the most requested macaroni and cheese recipe at our house? Our five ingredient pulled pork mac n' cheese!