Why You’ll Love Copycat Costco Mac and Cheese Recipe

• I get the rich and creamy flavor of Costco-style mac and cheese at home.
• The blend of cheeses creates deep savory flavor and smooth texture.
• The cavatappi pasta holds the sauce perfectly in every bite.
• It works well as both a main dish and a hearty side dish.
• The recipe is perfect for holidays, gatherings, and comfort food dinners.
• I can prepare it ahead of time and bake it later.
• The baked cheesy topping adds extra flavor and texture.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

1 pound cavatappi pasta

1 tablespoon olive oil

½ cup salted butter

½ cup all-purpose flour

1 cup heavy cream

3 cups milk

3½ cups grated white cheddar cheese, divided

2 cups grated Gruyère cheese, divided

¾ cup grated Romano cheese, divided

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided

½ cup grated medium cheddar cheese

½ tablespoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

¼ teaspoon paprika

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 325°F.
2. I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the cavatappi pasta until just slightly under al dente according to the package directions. After draining, I toss the pasta with olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. While the pasta cooks, I grate all the cheeses and set them aside, reserving the medium cheddar cheese for the topping.
4. In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, I melt the butter over medium heat.
5. I add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1 minute until a smooth roux forms.
6. I slowly pour in the heavy cream and 1 cup of milk while whisking constantly until smooth.
7. I add the remaining milk and continue cooking while stirring frequently until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3 to 4 minutes.
8. I stir in the salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
9. I gradually add portions of the white cheddar, Gruyère, Romano, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring after each addition until the sauce becomes smooth and fully melted.
10. I pour the cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and stir until evenly coated.
11. I spread half of the macaroni and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and sprinkle part of the remaining cheese mixture on top.
12. I layer the remaining pasta over the first layer and finish with the rest of the cheese mixture and the medium cheddar cheese.
13. I bake the dish uncovered for 15 minutes until the cheese becomes melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
14. I serve the mac and cheese hot and creamy.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 10 servings

Variations

• I sometimes add crispy breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.
• For a smoky flavor, I mix in a little smoked paprika.
• I like adding cooked broccoli or spinach for extra texture and color.
• When I want a sharper flavor, I increase the amount of Parmesan cheese.
• I occasionally mix in cooked chicken or turkey to turn it into a full meal.
• For extra creaminess, I stir in a little cream cheese with the sauce.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I add a splash of milk and warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave while stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy. I can also reheat larger portions in the oven covered with foil at 350°F until heated through. For longer storage, I freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

FAQs

What is cavatappi pasta?

I like using cavatappi because the spiral tube shape holds the creamy cheese sauce very well.

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes, I can substitute similar melting cheeses, although the original blend gives the best Costco-style flavor.

Why should I undercook the pasta slightly?

I slightly undercook the pasta so it stays firm after baking in the cheese sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble the dish ahead and refrigerate it before baking.

How do I keep the sauce creamy?

I add the cheese gradually over low heat and avoid overheating the sauce.

Can I freeze this mac and cheese?

Yes, I freeze it in airtight containers and thaw it before reheating.

What can I serve with this recipe?

I like serving it with roasted vegetables, salad, or grilled chicken.

Can I add breadcrumbs on top?

Yes, buttery breadcrumbs create a delicious crunchy topping.

Why does freshly grated cheese work better?

I find freshly grated cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.

Is this recipe good for holidays and potlucks?

Yes, this mac and cheese is always a crowd favorite for gatherings and special meals.

Conclusion

I keep making this copycat Costco mac and cheese because it delivers everything I want in a comforting baked pasta dish. The creamy cheese sauce, tender cavatappi pasta, and golden cheesy topping create rich flavor and satisfying texture in every bite. Whether I serve it for holidays, family dinners, or casual gatherings, this homemade version always brings warm and cheesy comfort to the table.