Creamy, ultra-cheesy, and impossibly craveable-Beecher's Mac and Cheese is the iconic mac and cheese you'll be dreaming about after your first bite. Each forkful is rich and tangy with a signature cheesy sauce that bakes up bubbly, golden, and irresistible.

What makes this recipe stand out? It's all about top-quality cheddar and a hint of spice, transforming familiar comfort food into an indulgent, show-stopping main course that tastes just like the famous Beecher's in Seattle.

Perfect for weeknight family dinners, potluck gatherings, or whenever you want to treat yourself to the ultimate cheese fix. Inspired by one of my favorite cheese shops, this is the mac and cheese I make when only the best will do!

The most irresistible, gooey Beecher's Mac and Cheese you'll ever taste.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Loaded with bold, tangy flavor from real cheddar and Jack cheeses
Super creamy sauce that doesn't get dry during baking
Kid-approved and perfect for picky eaters (and adults!)
Easy to prep ahead-great for holidays, potlucks, or make-ahead dinners

Key Ingredients for Beecher's Mac and Cheese

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Beecher's Flagship Cheese

This award-winning cow's milk cheese is the heart of the dish, delivering that famously sharp yet creamy flavor. Look for it at specialty stores or Beecher's locations. If unavailable, use a mix of sharp white cheddar and Gruyère to get a similar complexity.

Jack Cheese

Monterey Jack brings luscious meltability, making your sauce smooth and never grainy. For the creamiest texture, shred it yourself from a block rather than buying pre-shredded.

Elbow Macaroni

Classic elbow macaroni holds onto all the cheesy sauce in every bite. Feel free to try other shapes like cavatappi or shells for a twist, but avoid delicate small pasta that may overcook.

Chili Powder and Chipotle Chili Powder

A little chili powder and a dash of chipotle chili powder set Beecher's sauce apart, giving a subtle warmth and depth. If you're sensitive to heat, you can reduce the chipotle or swap with smoked paprika for a milder flavor.

Whole Milk

Whole milk creates a rich, silky sauce that coats the noodles perfectly. If needed, you could substitute with 2 percent, but avoid skim milk for best results.

Beecher's Mac and Cheese cooking process

Instructions for Beecher's Mac and Cheese

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook until just barely al dente, about 1 minute less than the package directions. Drain and set aside-you want the noodles firm so they don't get mushy while baking.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until the mixture is pale and frothy. Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps. Cook, whisking, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the Cheese and Seasonings

Reduce heat to low. Add the shredded Beecher's Flagship and Jack cheeses, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Stir in the salt, chili powder, chipotle chili powder, ground mustard, garlic powder, and a few cracks black pepper. Taste and adjust seasonings as you like!

Assemble and Top

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Combine the drained pasta and cheese sauce in the pot, tossing gently to coat every noodle. Pour mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle parmesan evenly over the top for a crisp, golden finish.

Bake Until Bubbling

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes to set up (the sauce will thicken as it cools), then dig in while it's hot and gooey!

Recipe Variations

Add a Crunchy Topping

Love a little texture? Top your mac and cheese with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs tossed in melted butter before baking. This gives a perfectly crisp, golden crust to contrast the creamy pasta underneath.

Gluten-Free Mac and Cheese

Simply swap regular elbow macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and use a gluten-free flour blend for the sauce. The taste and cheesiness stay just as amazing!

Spice It Up

Want more heat? Add a chopped roasted jalapeño or extra chipotle powder to amp up the smoky spice. You can also stir in a pinch of cayenne for those who love it hot.

Make It Protein Packed

For a heartier mac, stir in cooked rotisserie chicken, crumbled bacon, or sautéed sausage before baking. This turns it into a satisfying all-in-one meal.

Veggie-Loaded Version

Stir in steamed broccoli florets, sweet peas, or sautéed spinach to get some greens in with your cheesy goodness. It's a sneaky, delicious way to bulk up the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Beecher's Mac and Cheese piping hot straight from the oven, garnished with extra shredded cheese, chopped chives, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for color. Pair it with a crisp green salad and roasted veggies for a well-rounded meal, or offer roasted chicken on the side for extra protein. For ultimate comfort, don't forget warm, crusty bread to mop up any leftover sauce!

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, until warmed through-add a splash of milk to keep the sauce extra creamy. Mac and cheese also freezes well: cool completely, freeze tightly wrapped for up to 2 months, and reheat from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Frequently Asked Questions About Beecher's Mac and Cheese (FAQ)

Q: Can I assemble Beecher’s Mac and Cheese ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! Prepare the pasta and sauce, assemble in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting cold.

Q: What if I can’t find Beecher’s Flagship Cheese?

A: Use extra-sharp white cheddar combined with Gruyère or Swiss cheese for a similar depth and creaminess. The flavor will still be delicious!

Q: Can I make this mac and cheese gluten-free?

A: Yes! Swap in gluten-free pasta and use your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour for the roux-no other changes needed.

Q: How do I keep leftover mac and cheese creamy, not dry?

A: Stir in a splash of milk before reheating, and cover with foil if using the oven. This helps maintain that ultra-creamy texture.

Beecher's Mac and Cheese is hands-down the cheesiest, most satisfying comfort food you'll ever make at home. Bring this legendary dish to your table for instant smiles-then come back and let me know how much your family loved it! Don't forget to leave a comment or a star rating below.

Why You'll Love This Recipe