Patti LaBelle’s mac and cheese is all about richness and texture. My family asks for this one A LOT!
My eaters really love the multiple types of cheese for that deep flavor. I’m talking sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Muenster. Mmm
Don’t skimp on the half-and-half! It’s what makes the sauce so luscious and coats the pasta divinely.
I also recommend grating your own cheese instead of buying pre-shredded. The freshness makes such a noticeable difference when it melts into the sauce.
Let’s get you cookin’!
How to Make Patti LaBelle Mac and Cheese
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups Macaroni
- 1 tbsp Butter
- 1 1/2 cups Evaporated Milk
- 1 can Cheddar Cheese (16 oz.)
- 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup Mild Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese (shredded)
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 2 large Eggs
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Lightly butter a deep 2 1/2 quart baking dish.
Step 2:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
Cook the macaroni until it is al dente, following the package instructions.
Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 3:
In a large bowl, combine evaporated milk, butter, eggs, salt, and pepper.
Mix the macaroni into this mixture until well coated.
Step 4:
Add in all the cheeses and stir well until everything is thoroughly mixed.
Ensure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the macaroni.
Step 5:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Bake it in the preheated oven until the top is lightly golden and bubbly, about 30-35 minutes.
Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Grease the Dish Well
Coat your baking dish with butter thoroughly to prevent sticking, making cleanup a breeze later.
Cheese Choices Matter
Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to personalize the flavor, like Gouda or Mozzarella if you’re feeling adventurous.
Water and Oil Combo
Adding oil to your pasta water prevents sticking, keeping every piece perfectly separate and delicious.
Customize to Taste
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the mix.
Prioritize Freshness
Using freshly grated cheese can significantly enhance the texture of your dish and make it even creamier and more delicious!
What to Serve with Patti LaBelle’s Mac and Cheese
BBQ Ribs or Brisket
You’ll find that smoky BBQ ribs or brisket provide a wonderful contrast to the creamy, cheesy goodness of Patti LaBelle’s mac and cheese.
This pairing offers a balance of flavors that is satisfying and hearty.
Whether you prefer grilling or smoking your meats, both methods will complement the dish nicely.
Collard Greens
Serving collard greens adds a fresh, earthy element to your meal and balances the rich flavors of the mac and cheese.
You’ll appreciate how the slight bitterness of the greens works harmoniously with the pasta.
Collard greens can be prepared simply with a bit of olive oil and garlic for a tasty side dish.
Cornbread
Cornbread is another classic side that always pairs well with mac and cheese.
Its slightly sweet flavor and crumbly texture make it a comforting addition to the dining table.
You’ll love how cornbread rounds out the meal with its familiar taste.
Roasted Vegetables
For a lighter option, consider adding a variety of roasted vegetables to your plate.
This is a chance to incorporate seasonal veggies, providing color and nutrition alongside your main dish.
You might choose to roast carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to add a unique twist.
Kimchi
For an adventurous and unexpected pairing, try serving kimchi as a side dish with mac and cheese.
You’ll enjoy the spicy, tangy flavors of kimchi which can cut through the richness of the pasta.
This Korean classic offers a vibrant and refreshing contrast to the creamy cheese.
Avocado and Tomato Salad
An avocado and tomato salad can introduce a fresh, cool element to your meal.
The creamy texture of the avocado pairs surprisingly well with the mac and cheese.
Add some lime juice and cilantro to the salad, and you have a bright and delicious addition.
Variations and Substitutions
Cheese Choices
You don’t have to stick to the classic cheese mix.
Try mixing cheddar with mozzarella or gouda for different textures and flavors.
Experimenting with different cheeses can bring a whole new taste to your dish!
Milk and Cream
Half and half is commonly used in this recipe, but you can try using whole milk or heavy cream if you prefer.
Each option will bring a different creaminess to your macaroni and cheese.
Spice It Up
Adding some heat always brings a fun twist!
Consider adding a sprinkle of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce into your cheese mixture.
This addition can definitely add a bit of excitement to each bite!
Pasta Variations
Elbow macaroni is popular, but don’t be afraid to try out other shapes like shells or penne.
Changing the pasta shape can affect how the cheese clings to the noodles.
Topping Alternatives
Breadcrumbs always add a nice crunch to the top, but you can use crushed crackers or even crispy onions.
Choosing different toppings can change the texture, making each version unique in its own way.
How to Store Leftover Patti LaBelle Mac and Cheese
When you have leftovers from Patti LaBelle’s mac and cheese, you want to keep them tasty and fresh.
Refrigeration
Refrigerate the leftovers quickly within two hours to keep everything safe and flavorful.
Containers Matter: Use airtight containers to keep moisture locked in and prevent other fridge odors from mingling with your leftovers.
Store your mac and cheese in these sealed containers for up to three to five days.
Freezing
Freezing is also a great option if you think it’ll be longer before you eat it again.
Freezing Tips: Make sure your mac and cheese is cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers.
Flatten the bags to save space in your freezer, and label them with the date for easy tracking.
Portion Control
If you often reheat just a small amount, consider storing your leftovers in single-serving containers.
This allows you to grab exactly how much you need without thawing a massive portion.
These simple storage tips help keep your mac and cheese tasting its best every time you enjoy it again!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not Using Fresh Ingredients
You absolutely want to stick with fresh ingredients for the best flavors.
Using processed or old cheese can diminish the rich flavor that makes this dish special.
Make sure the cheese varieties you choose are full of flavor and high quality!
Overcooking the Noodles
Be cautious not to overcook your macaroni!
You want your pasta just slightly firm because it will cook again in the oven.
Setting a timer can help keep the noodles perfect, so they don’t become mushy.
Incorrect Oven Temperature
Double-check your oven temperature before starting.
An oven that’s too hot or too cool affects the texture and taste of the final dish.
It’s always a good idea to preheat the oven to the required 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Patti LaBelle Mac and Cheese Recipe
- 1 1/2 cups Macaroni
- 1 tbsp Butter
- 1 1/2 cups Evaporated Milk
- 1 can Cheddar Cheese 16 oz.
- 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese shredded
- 1 cup Mild Cheddar Cheese shredded
- 1 cup Monterey Jack Cheese shredded
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 2 large Eggs
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Lightly butter a deep 2 1/2 quart baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Cook the macaroni until it is al dente, following the package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- In a large bowl, combine evaporated milk, butter, eggs, salt, and pepper.
- Mix the macaroni into this mixture until well coated.
- Add in all the cheeses and stir well until everything is thoroughly mixed.
- Ensure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the macaroni.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake it in the preheated oven until the top is lightly golden and bubbly, about 30-35 minutes.
- Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy goodness!
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