We’ve always been fans of J Alexander’s mac and cheese—it’s that irresistible blend of creamy cheddar and perfectly baked pasta that keeps us coming back. Originating from the beloved restaurant chain this dish has become a comfort food staple perfect for cozy nights or holiday feasts.
As food enthusiasts we love recreating restaurant favorites at home so you can enjoy that rich flavor without leaving your kitchen. Today we’ll guide you through a simple yet authentic version that delivers all the gooey goodness you crave.
Ingredients
To bring our version of J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese to life, we’ve compiled a precise list of ingredients below. We order them as they appear in the preparation process, with notes on any necessary prep for optimal results.
- Pasta: 1 pound elbow macaroni – cook al dente as the base for our creamy dish.
- Butter: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter – melted to start the roux that thickens our sauce.
- All-purpose flour: ¼ cup – sifted to ensure a smooth consistency in the roux.
- Milk: 4 cups whole milk – warmed to prevent curdling when mixed into the sauce.
- Cheddar cheese: 2 cups freshly grated sharp cheddar – shred it yourself for better melt and flavor, as it’s the star of this comforting classic.
- Parmesan cheese: 1 cup finely grated Parmesan – adds a nutty depth; grate it fresh for authenticity.
- Heavy cream: 1 cup – for extra creaminess that mimics the restaurant’s indulgent texture.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon – adjust to taste for seasoning the pasta water and sauce.
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon freshly ground – enhances the savory notes in our final mix.
- Ground mustard: 1 teaspoon – whisked in for a subtle tang that elevates the cheese flavor.
- Paprika: ½ teaspoon – sprinkled for a hint of smokiness and color on top before baking.
Equipment Needed
After preparing our ingredients for J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese, we turn our attention to the essential equipment that ensures a smooth cooking process. Gathering the right tools helps us achieve that creamy, baked perfection right in our own kitchen.
To make this recipe straightforward and efficient, here’s a list of the key equipment we’ll need, organized by the steps where they’re primarily used:
- Large Pot: For boiling the elbow macaroni to al dente perfection—aim for at least a 4-quart size to handle the pasta without overflow.
- Colander: Essential for draining the cooked pasta quickly, preventing it from becoming mushy and ensuring our dish retains the ideal texture.
- Medium Saucepan: We’ll use this for creating the roux and cheese sauce, opting for one with a heavy bottom to prevent scorching the milk and butter mixture.
- Whisk: A must-have for smoothly incorporating the flour into the butter and blending in the cheeses, avoiding lumps in our velvety sauce.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Perfect for stirring the sauce as it thickens, and heat-resistant to handle the high temperatures without melting.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for our recipe’s balance of flavors, so we recommend a set that includes both dry and liquid options.
- Grater: If our cheddar and Parmesan aren’t pre-grated, this tool helps us achieve finely grated cheese for that melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
- Baking Dish: A 9×13-inch oven-safe dish works best for baking the mac and cheese to a golden, bubbly finish—glass or ceramic options distribute heat evenly.
- Oven: Preheated to 350°F, it’s crucial for the final baking step that gives our J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese its signature crispy top.
By having these items ready, we set ourselves up for a seamless experience that captures the authentic, comforting essence of this classic dish.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients and essential equipment, we guide you through the straightforward steps to craft our version of J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese with its signature creamy cheddar sauce and baked perfection.
Prep
Before we begin cooking, we prepare our ingredients to ensure everything flows smoothly. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil—aim for about 4 quarts of water with 1 tablespoon of salt for optimal flavor infusion. Add 1 pound of elbow macaroni to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 7-9 minutes, so the pasta holds its shape without becoming mushy. While the macaroni cooks, grate 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese and 1 cup of Parmesan cheese finely for even melting, evoking the rich, nutty aroma that defines J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse briefly under cool water to stop the cooking process, preserving its tender yet firm texture.
Cook
With our pasta prepped, we move to cooking the luscious cheese sauce that makes this dish irresistible. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter until it bubbles and releases a warm, inviting scent. Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to form a roux, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes until it turns golden and smooth, creating a base that thickens the sauce perfectly. Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk and 1 cup of heavy cream, whisking vigorously to avoid lumps and achieve a silky consistency. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground mustard, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Once it thickens—about 5 minutes—remove from heat and stir in the grated cheeses until they melt into a glossy, velvety sauce that promises the creamy cheddar indulgence of J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese.
Assemble and Bake
| Oven Temperature (°F) | Baking Time (minutes) | Expected Result |
|---|---|---|
| 350 | 20-25 | Golden, bubbly top with creamy interior |
| 375 | 15-20 | Faster browning; monitor to avoid overcooking |
Make-Ahead Instructions
One of the best aspects of our J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese recipe is its flexibility for make-ahead preparation, allowing us to enjoy that creamy cheddar goodness without last-minute hassle. We recommend prepping components in advance to preserve the rich, bubbly texture and authentic flavors, ensuring every bite delivers the comforting warmth of baked pasta straight from our kitchen.
Preparing the Dish Ahead
To streamline your cooking process, follow these steps to prepare J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese up to 24 hours in advance:
- Cook the pasta early: Boil the elbow macaroni until just al dente, as described in our earlier steps. Drain and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process, then toss with a light coating of oil to prevent sticking. This keeps the pasta firm and ready for assembly.
- Make the cheese sauce in advance: Prepare the roux, milk mixture, and cheese blend as outlined, but cool the sauce completely before storing. Avoid overcooking the cheese to maintain its smooth, melty consistency when reheated.
- Assemble the full dish: Combine the cooked pasta with the cooled cheese sauce in your baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil to lock in moisture and flavors.
Storage Tips
For optimal results, store the assembled dish in the refrigerator or freezer to extend its shelf life while keeping the creamy interior intact:
- Refrigerator storage: Place the covered baking dish in the fridge for up to 2 days. This method helps retain the sharp cheddar’s bold taste and prevents the sauce from separating.
- Freezer storage: For longer-term planning, freeze the assembled dish for up to 3 months. Use a freezer-safe container to avoid freezer burn, ensuring the dish emerges as golden and irresistible as freshly made.
If you’re tracking storage durations or comparing options, here’s a quick reference:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 2 days | Maintains fresh, creamy texture; quick reheating |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Preserves flavors for future meals; ideal for batch cooking |
Reheating and Baking Instructions
When you’re ready to serve, we make reheating simple and effective to recapture that golden, bubbly top and velvety interior of J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese:
- From the refrigerator: Remove the dish from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes to ensure even baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F, uncover, and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through and the top is perfectly golden and aromatic.
- From the freezer: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator first, then follow the refrigerator reheating steps. For direct baking, add 10-15 minutes to the bake time and cover with foil initially to prevent drying out.
- Final touch: Stir gently halfway through baking to redistribute the sauce, enhancing the dish’s rich, comforting senses with every creamy bite.
By following these make-ahead strategies, we can effortlessly bring the authentic essence of J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese to our table, making it a go-to for busy days or gatherings.
Conclusion
We’ve shared our favorite take on J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese to help you recreate that irresistible comfort at home. It’s rewarding to master dishes like this and make them your own.
With these tips you’re set for creamy results every time so dive in and savor the warmth it brings to your meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese?
J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese is a comforting restaurant favorite featuring creamy cheddar cheese sauce mixed with baked elbow pasta. It’s celebrated for its rich, authentic flavors, making it a go-to comfort food that’s easy to recreate at home for a homemade version of this classic dish.
What ingredients are needed for J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese recipe?
You’ll need elbow macaroni, unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, whole milk, heavy cream, freshly grated sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, salt, black pepper, ground mustard, and paprika. Prepare them in the order used for optimal results, ensuring cheeses are freshly grated for the best melt and flavor.
What equipment is required to make this recipe?
Essential tools include a large pot for boiling pasta, a colander for draining, a medium saucepan for the cheese sauce, a whisk for blending, a wooden spoon or spatula for stirring, measuring cups and spoons, a grater for cheese, and a baking dish. Preheat your oven to 350°F for seamless preparation.
How do I prepare J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese?
Boil elbow macaroni until al dente in salted water. Make a roux with butter and flour, add milk and cream, then stir in seasonings and grated cheeses to create the sauce. Mix with pasta, transfer to a baking dish, and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or 375°F for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Can I make J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the pasta and cheese sauce up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. For longer storage, freeze it. This makes it convenient for busy days, ensuring you can bake it fresh when needed without losing flavor or texture.
How should I store and reheat J Alexander’s Mac and Cheese?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw if frozen, then bake at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave for quick servings. Add a splash of milk to maintain creaminess during reheating.
What tips ensure the best results with this recipe?
Use freshly grated cheese for smooth melting, cook pasta to al dente to avoid sogginess, and don’t skip the roux for a creamy sauce. Experiment with baking temperatures based on your oven, and add a pinch more paprika for extra flavor. Follow measurements accurately for an authentic J Alexander’s taste.