Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese is a beloved Southern classic that brings comfort and rich flavors to every bite. Known for its creamy texture and perfectly baked cheesy crust, this dish has earned a loyal following for good reason. Whether you’re craving a hearty side or a satisfying main, Ukrop’s version stands out with its simple ingredients and timeless appeal.
We love how this recipe combines sharp cheddar and creamy cheeses to create a luscious sauce that clings to every noodle. It’s the kind of mac and cheese that feels like a warm hug on a plate—ideal for family dinners or special gatherings. Let’s dive into making this iconic dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen too.
Ukrop’S Mac And Cheese Recipe
To recreate Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese, we follow a precise step-by-step process that guarantees a creamy sauce enveloping tender pasta, topped with a golden, crispy crust. This recipe balances sharp cheddar and cream cheese, delivering that signature rich flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water.
- Add the elbow macaroni and cook al dente for 7-8 minutes.
- Drain and set aside.
- Pro tip: Do not overcook; slightly firm pasta holds up well during baking.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour, stirring constantly to form a smooth roux. Cook the roux for 2-3 minutes until lightly golden.
- Gradually add warm milk while whisking vigorously to avoid lumps.
- Cook the sauce until it thickens, about 5 minutes, stirring often.
- Lower heat to medium-low, add cream cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
- Stir in sharp cheddar cheese slowly, reserving 1 cup for topping.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika.
- Remove the sauce from heat once fully combined and velvety.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- Pour the sauce over the drained macaroni and stir gently to combine.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 4: Prepare the Topping
- Mix remaining 1 cup shredded cheddar with Panko breadcrumbs.
- Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese to form a crunchy top layer.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and bubbling.
Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese Specifications
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Elbow macaroni | 1 lb | Pasta base for texture |
| Sharp cheddar cheese | 4 cups | Primary cheese for sharp flavor |
| Cream cheese | 8 oz | Adds creaminess and richness |
| Whole milk | 4 cups | Creates smooth sauce |
| Unsalted butter | 1/2 cup | Base for roux |
| All-purpose flour | 1/2 cup | Thickens sauce |
| Salt | 1 tsp | Enhances seasoning |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp | Adds subtle heat |
| Paprika | 1/2 tsp | Adds color and depth |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1 cup | Crispy topping |
“The magic of Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese lies in the balance of creamy, sharp, and crunchy textures.” By carefully layering flavors and textures, this recipe brings authentic Southern comfort straight to our table.
Ingredients
To make Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese just right, we focus on high-quality ingredients that deliver rich flavors and a creamy texture. Below, we break down the essential components for this beloved Southern dish.
Cheese Blend
The heart of Ukrop’s lies in its sharp and creamy cheese blend. We use:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded for boldness and depth
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened to add smooth creaminess
- 1/2 cup mozzarella, shredded for stretchy texture (optional but recommended)
This combination achieves the perfect balance of sharpness, meltability, and silky creaminess.
Pasta
Choosing the right pasta shapes how the sauce clings. Use:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni – the classic choice for traditional mac and cheese
- Cooked al dente, rinsed under cold water to stop cooking and prevent clumping
We find that the curved elbows capture the luscious cheese sauce perfectly, maximizing every bite.
Milk and Cream
For the rich sauce base, we combine these:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Whole milk | 2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
The whole milk adds body while heavy cream delivers luxurious richness, essential for that velvety sauce texture.
Butter and Flour (for Roux)
A proper roux is crucial for thickening. Use:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
We melt the butter, whisk in the flour until smooth and bubbly, then slowly add the milk mixture to create a creamy base that clings beautifully to the pasta.
Seasonings
To enhance the cheese flavors and balance the dish, we add:
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder for subtle tang and depth
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika for mild smoky warmth (optional)
These seasonings subtly boost the cheese, ensuring our Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese bursts with classic Southern flavor.
Equipment Needed
To craft Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese with its iconic creamy texture and golden crust, having the right tools is essential. Here is a detailed list of the key equipment that will ensure every step goes smoothly, from cooking the pasta to baking the perfect cheesy casserole.
Essential Cooking Tools
- Large Pot: We use this to boil the elbow macaroni al dente. It needs to be spacious enough for the pasta to cook evenly without sticking.
- Colander: For draining the pasta thoroughly while preventing any excess water from diluting our creamy cheese sauce.
- Medium Saucepan: Perfect for preparing the roux and slowly whisking in milk and cheeses without scorching.
- Whisk: Critical for combining the roux and milk into a smooth velvety sauce. It helps avoid lumps and creates that rich consistency Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese is famous for.
Baking and Finishing Equipment
- 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Ideal for layering the pasta and cheese sauce evenly. The wide surface allows the top layer to brown nicely forming the signature crispy crust.
- Mixing Spoon or Spatula: We use this to fold the pasta into the cheese sauce gently, making sure every noodle is coated.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurement is key, especially for flour, milk, and seasonings to get the perfect balance in the sauce.
- Oven Mitts: Safety first, as we transfer the bubbling dish in and out of the oven for that beautiful finishing bake.
Optional but Helpful
- Grater: For shredding sharp cheddar and other cheeses freshly, which melts better and tastes fresher.
- Pastry Brush: To lightly coat the baking dish with butter or to brush on melted butter atop Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
| Equipment | Purpose | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Large Pot | Boiling elbow macaroni | Essential |
| Colander | Draining pasta | Essential |
| Medium Saucepan | Making cheese sauce | Essential |
| Whisk | Combining roux and milk | Essential |
| 9×13-inch Baking Dish | Baking the assembled mac and cheese | Essential |
| Mixing Spoon / Spatula | Stirring and folding | Essential |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Measuring ingredients accurately | Essential |
| Oven Mitts | Handling hot dishes safely | Essential |
| Grater (Optional) | Freshly shredding cheese | Recommended |
| Pastry Brush (Optional) | Buttering crumbs for crisp topping | Recommended |
“Using the right equipment is half the battle for mastering Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese.” When you use these tools, the process becomes seamless and the results truly authentic.
Prep Work
Before diving into the cooking process, preparing each component carefully sets the foundation for the best Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese. This stage includes handling the cheese, pasta, and roux with precision to guarantee creamy, flavorful results.
Preparing the Cheese
We start by prepping the cheese to ensure it melts smoothly in our sauce. For Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese, shred or cube the following cheeses:
- Sharp cheddar cheese (8 ounces, freshly shredded)
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, cubed and softened)
- Optional: Mozzarella (4 ounces, shredded for extra stretch)
Tip: Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and a richer texture.
Store the cheeses separately until ready to combine with sauce. This prevents clumping and encourages even melting.
Boiling the Pasta
To achieve perfectly tender pasta that holds onto the cheese sauce:
- Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil.
- Add 1 tablespoon of salt to the boiling water to season the pasta.
- Add elbow macaroni (12 ounces) slowly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook the pasta until al dente—firm to the bite but cooked through—usually 7 to 8 minutes.
- Drain the pasta using a colander and immediately rinse briefly with warm water to stop cooking.
| Pasta Type | Quantity | Cooking Time | Texture Goal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elbow Macaroni | 12 oz | 7-8 minutes | Al dente |
Remember: Al dente pasta maximizes sauce adherence, crucial for our creamy Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese.
Making the Roux
The roux is our base for the creamy cheese sauce. We must prepare it carefully to avoid lumps and achieve the perfect thickness.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter (4 tablespoons) until foamy.
- Whisk in all-purpose flour (1/4 cup) continuously to form a smooth paste.
- Cook the mixture for 2 to 3 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste, whisking constantly.
- Gradually add whole milk (2 cups) and heavy cream (1 cup) in small increments while whisking to keep the mixture smooth.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, continuing to whisk until thickened and velvety, about 5 minutes.
- Season with salt (1 teaspoon), black pepper (1/2 teaspoon), and mustard powder (1/2 teaspoon) for depth.
Pro tip: Whisking constantly while adding milk ensures a lump-free roux, the secret to a silky cheese sauce.
Directions
Follow these precise steps to create Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese with its signature creamy texture and golden crust. Each stage builds the rich, comforting flavor that makes this dish a Southern classic.
Making the Cheese Sauce
- Melt unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat until foamy but not browned.
- Whisk in all-purpose flour to form a smooth roux. Continue cooking, whisking constantly, for 2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add whole milk and heavy cream in a slow stream, whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese, cubed cream cheese, and optional shredded mozzarella until completely melted and smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, mustard powder, and a pinch of paprika to enhance the classic Southern flavor profile.
Combining Pasta and Sauce
- Drain the al dente elbow macaroni in a colander, then immediately transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Pour the warm cheese sauce over the pasta.
- Gently stir or fold using a spatula until each elbow macaroni is thoroughly coated in the velvety, cheesy sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, ensuring the perfect balance of creamy and sharp flavors.
Baking the Mac and Cheese
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the pasta and cheese mixture into a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- For the iconic golden crust, sprinkle an even layer of Panko breadcrumbs mixed with a little melted butter over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is crisp and golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.
Optional Toppings and Add-ins
Enhance our Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese with these popular additions:
| Topping/Add-in | Description | When to Add |
|---|---|---|
| Crispy bacon bits | Adds smoky crunch | Sprinkle over before baking |
| Diced jalapeños | Adds a spicy kick | Fold into the pasta and sauce mix |
| Fresh herbs (parsley, chives) | Adds freshness and color | Garnish after baking |
| Extra shredded cheese | For an ultra cheesy top | Sprinkle before baking |
| Hot sauce | For heat enthusiasts | Serve on the side or drizzle when serving |
Incorporate these extras thoughtfully to keep the balance of creamy, sharp, and crunchy textures that define the best homemade Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese experience, we recommend pairing it with complementary sides and garnishes that enhance its rich, creamy flavor and crispy topping.
Classic Side Pairings
- Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp blend of lettuce, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus add a fresh, slightly crunchy contrast.
- Buttered Cornbread: The sweetness and crumbly texture of cornbread harmonize perfectly with the cheesy sauce.
Suggested Garnishes to Elevate Flavor
- Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle parsley, chives, or thyme for a burst of freshness.
- Crispy Bacon Bits: Add smoky, salty crunch that complements the creamy cheese.
- Diced Jalapeños: For those who love a bit of heat, jalapeños introduce a spicy kick.
- Extra Shredded Sharp Cheddar or Mozzarella: Melt more cheese on top for indulgence.
- Hot Sauce or Mustard Powder: Drizzle or dust lightly to enhance the sharp notes of the cheese.
Presentation Tips
- Serve in warm, shallow bowls to showcase the golden crust.
- Offer toppings separately so guests can customize their mac and cheese experience.
- Garnish with a light dusting of paprika or cracked black pepper for visual appeal and subtle spice.
| Side Dish | Flavor Profile | Texture Contrast |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Garden Salad | Light, tangy | Crisp, fresh |
| Steamed/Roasted Veg | Earthy, mellow | Soft or slightly crunchy |
| Buttered Cornbread | Sweet, buttery | Crumbly |
By combining Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese with these well-chosen sides and toppings we create a balanced meal showcasing the dish’s creamy richness and signature crust.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To maintain the signature creamy texture and golden crust of Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese, proper make-ahead and storage practices are essential. Here’s how we ensure this dish stays delicious whether served immediately or saved for later.
Make-Ahead Instructions
- Prepare the mac and cheese up to the baking step.
- Transfer to a covered baking dish and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
- Before baking, remove from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes or until the topping is golden and the cheese sauce is bubbly.
Storage Guidelines
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Store in an airtight container |
| Freezer | Up to 2 months | Wrap tightly in foil or freeze in a freezer-safe container |
- To freeze, cool the baked mac and cheese completely.
- Wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap or transfer to a freezer-safe container.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Tips
- Oven reheating preserves the crispy crust best.
- Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
- Remove foil during the last 5 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
“Proper storage and reheating ensure no loss of taste or texture, keeping our Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese just as comforting as when fresh.”
By following these Make-Ahead and Storage Tips, we can enjoy the distinct rich, cheesy flavor and crunchy topping of our favorite Southern classic anytime.
Conclusion
Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese stands out as a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Its perfect blend of creamy cheese sauce and crispy topping makes it a dish worth mastering.
With the right ingredients, equipment, and techniques, we can recreate this Southern favorite in our own kitchens and enjoy its rich flavors anytime. Whether for a family meal or a special occasion, this recipe promises a delicious experience that’s both classic and comforting.
Let’s keep this iconic dish alive by sharing it with loved ones and savoring every cheesy, crunchy bite together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese unique?
Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese is known for its creamy, rich sauce made with sharp cheddar and cream cheese, combined with a crispy Panko breadcrumb topping. Its balance of creamy, cheesy, and crunchy textures captures the essence of Southern comfort food.
Which cheeses are used in Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese?
The recipe primarily uses sharp cheddar and cream cheese, with optional mozzarella for added stretch and creaminess.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Elbow macaroni cooked al dente is recommended to help the sauce cling well to each noodle and maintain a perfect texture.
How do you make the sauce creamy and smooth?
A roux made from unsalted butter and all-purpose flour is cooked, then whole milk and heavy cream are slowly whisked in. Shredded cheeses melt into this base to create a velvety sauce.
What equipment is needed to prepare Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese?
Key tools include a large pot, colander, medium saucepan, whisk, 9×13-inch baking dish, and a mixing spoon or spatula. Optional items like a cheese grater and pastry brush help enhance the topping.
Can I prepare Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the dish up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking for fresh results.
How should leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven to keep the crispy crust intact.
What toppings or add-ins can be added to this mac and cheese?
Popular add-ins include crispy bacon bits, diced jalapeños, fresh herbs, extra cheese, and hot sauce for extra flavor and texture.
What sides pair well with Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese?
Classic sides include garden salad, steamed or roasted vegetables, and buttered cornbread to balance the richness of the dish.
What seasonings enhance Ukrop’s Mac and Cheese?
Salt, black pepper, mustard powder, and optional paprika bring out classic Southern flavors and elevate the creamy cheese sauce.