Let me tell you about this amazing Golden Corral Mac and Cheese recipe that I absolutely swear by!
The secret to nailing this dish is starting with a creamy béchamel sauce as the base.
I always add a mix of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and a bit of Parmesan for more depth of flavor.
One of my favorite tips is to stir in a little Dijon mustard for just a hint of zing.
My go-to pasta is cavatappi because its ridges hold onto the cheesy sauce beautifully.
I enjoy how this dish combines creamy, cheesy goodness with a satisfying, crunchy topping.
How to Make Golden Corral Mac and Cheese
You can easily replicate Golden Corral’s beloved mac and cheese at home with just a few steps.
Let’s break it down into the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and some helpful tips and tricks.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Butter
- 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour
- 2 cups Milk
- 2-3 cups Elbow Macaroni
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup Other Cheese of Choice (shredded)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black Pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Cook the elbow macaroni in a pot of boiling salted water until al dente.
Drain and set aside.
Step 2:
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Whisk in the flour to create a smooth paste.
Step 3:
Gradually add milk, whisking constantly, until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4:
Stir in the cheddar cheese and other cheese until melted and fully integrated.
Step 5:
Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni and mix thoroughly.
Transfer to a baking dish if desired and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes for a baked version.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Choose Your Cheese Wisely
Using a combination of sharp cheddar and creamy cheese helps balance flavors and texture.
Feel free to experiment with cheese varieties to find your perfect mix.
Mind the Pasta
Avoid overcooking your macaroni, as it will continue to cook once mixed with hot cheese sauce.
Aim for a firm, al dente texture.
Spice It Up
Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or paprika for extra depth and warmth in your cheese sauce.
Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
What to Serve with Golden Corral Mac and Cheese
Meatloaf Surprise
You can’t go wrong with a classic meatloaf when you’re serving up Golden Corral Mac and Cheese!
Cooking it in an air fryer gives it a crispy crust while keeping the inside juicy and flavorful.
Green Beans with a Twist
For a healthier option, try green beans seasoned with garlic and almonds!
They provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy macaroni and cheese, making them a great pairing.
Fritos Corn Salad
Add some excitement to your meal with Fritos Corn Salad!
This no-cook dish includes bell pepper, cheese, corn, and crunchy Cheese Fritos mixed in a creamy dressing.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts are not only delicious but can be a surprise hit alongside mac and cheese!
Season them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast until they’re beautifully caramelized.
Spicy Slaw
Spice things up with a tangy slaw made from cabbage, cilantro, and a kick of lime juice.
This fresh side dish adds a zesty crunch that pairs nicely with the savory cheese flavors.
Variations and Substitutions
Cheese Options
You can try using a mix of different cheeses for richer flavor.
Consider cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Colby for a creamy texture.
Add-Ins
Why not jazz it up with some bacon bits or diced ham?
Adding cooked broccoli or peas can be a great way to include some veggies.
Spice It Up
You can give your mac and cheese a kick by adding some hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes.
A dash of garlic powder or paprika also brings out a unique taste.
Pasta Choices
Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes.
Shells, cavatappi, or farfalle can add an interesting twist.
Cream Substitutes
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use whole milk or half-and-half.
These will still give a lovely creamy consistency.
Try out these ideas and have fun with it!
How to Store Leftover Golden Corral Mac and Cheese
Airtight Containers
After you’ve enjoyed your meal, place the Golden Corral mac and cheese in a clean, airtight container.
This will keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing other odors from the fridge.
Make sure to press the lid down firmly to ensure a tight seal.
Refrigeration Time
Store your leftovers in the refrigerator where they can last safely for up to 3-5 days.
This timeframe ensures the mac and cheese maintain their best quality without a loss in texture or taste.
Check the fridge temperature to ensure it’s set below 40°F for maximum safety.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze mac and cheese if you need to keep it longer than a week; wrap portions individually in plastic wrap.
Place the wrapped pieces into a freezer-safe ziplock bag to protect the creamy texture and delicious flavor.
Keep it stored in the freezer for up to two months for the best quality.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing the Wrong Pasta
You want to choose a pasta that holds onto the sauce, like elbow macaroni or shells.
Using smooth pasta can lead to the sauce sliding right off, leaving a bland taste.
Skipping the Cheese Sauce Base
Never skip making a proper cheese sauce with a roux, which is a mix of butter and flour.
Starting with a roux sets the stage for the creamy consistency you aim for.
Misjudging Cheese Quality
Opt for fresh, high-quality cheeses to create that perfect melt and flavor.
Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce.

Golden Corral Mac and Cheese Recipe
- 1/4 cup Butter
- 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour
- 2 cups Milk
- 2-3 cups Elbow Macaroni
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup Other Cheese of Choice shredded
- Salt to taste
- Black Pepper freshly ground, to taste
- Cook the elbow macaroni in a pot of boiling salted water until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour to create a smooth paste.
- Gradually add milk, whisking constantly, until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese and other cheese until melted and fully integrated.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni and mix thoroughly.
- Transfer to a baking dish if desired and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes for a baked version.
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