Tired of bland, uninspiring macaroni and cheese that leaves you wanting more? I know that feeling all too well. That’s why Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese has become my go-to recipe when I need serious comfort food satisfaction. This iconic dish delivers creamy, cheesy perfection with a golden, crispy top that will make you close your eyes and savor every bite.
Hi! I’m Emily, the creator behind Bikren Cook, and I’ve tested countless mac and cheese recipes over the years. When I first discovered Patti LaBelle’s version, I knew I had found something special. The combination of multiple cheeses, perfectly cooked pasta, and that signature golden crust creates an experience that transforms a simple side dish into the star of any meal.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making Patti LaBelle’s famous mac and cheese, from selecting the right ingredients to achieving that perfect texture every time. You’ll discover cheese selection tips, preparation techniques, and serving suggestions that will elevate this comfort classic to new heights.
Why Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese Works
● Uses everyday pantry ingredients with extraordinary results
● Multiple cheese blend creates incredible depth of flavor
● Perfect balance of creamy interior and crispy topping
● Easily adaptable for family dinners or special occasions
● Make-ahead friendly for stress-free entertaining
Choosing the Right Ingredients for Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese
The Perfect Pasta Selection
Patti’s recipe traditionally calls for elbow macaroni, which captures the creamy sauce perfectly in its curved shape. For best results, choose a high-quality pasta that will maintain its texture even after baking. If you can’t find elbow macaroni, other short pasta shapes like cavatappi or medium shells work beautifully in this Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese recipe.
Cheese Choices That Make the Difference
The magic of Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese lies in its blend of cheeses. For authentic results, you’ll want:
- Sharp cheddar: Provides the classic flavor base
- Velveeta: Creates unmatched creaminess
- Muenster: Adds wonderful meltability
- Colby: Contributes buttery notes
When shopping, look for blocks of cheese rather than pre-shredded varieties, which contain anti-caking agents that can affect the smoothness of your sauce.
Dairy Components
For the richest results in your Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese, use:
- Whole milk: Creates the perfect base for your sauce
- Half-and-half: Adds luxurious richness
- Real butter: Unsalted allows you to control seasoning
Ingredients & Prep for Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese
Essential Components
- 16 oz elbow macaroni
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1 cup Velveeta, cubed
- 1 cup Muenster cheese, grated
- 1 cup Colby cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
Flavor Enhancers
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional but recommended)
Need more recipe inspiration? Check out my One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles for another crowd-pleasing comfort food option!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese
Pre-Cooking Prep for Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese
- Preheat your oven to 350°F and generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Grate all block cheeses and set aside, keeping them separate.
- Measure out remaining ingredients so they’re ready to use.
Cooking Method for Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese
- Cook the macaroni for 1-2 minutes less than package directions (it should be very al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven).
- Drain pasta well but do not rinse—the starch helps the sauce adhere.
- In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- Gradually whisk in milk and half-and-half, cooking for 5-7 minutes until mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- Remove from heat and add cheeses one handful at a time, stirring until completely melted before adding more.
- Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- In a small bowl, temper the eggs by slowly adding a few tablespoons of the hot cheese sauce while whisking constantly.
- Add tempered eggs to the cheese sauce, stirring quickly to incorporate.
- Fold in the cooked macaroni, making sure every piece is coated with sauce.
Baking Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese
- Pour half the mac and cheese mixture into your prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle with additional cheese (about 1/2 cup of the reserved sharp cheddar).
- Add remaining macaroni mixture and top with the rest of your reserved cheese.
- Sprinkle lightly with paprika for color and flavor.
- Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Resting Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese
Allow the finished dish to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This crucial step lets the sauce set up and flavors meld together, resulting in perfect sliceable portions with that signature Patti LaBelle creamy texture.
For another comforting dish perfect for any season, try my Tuscan White Bean Soup that pairs beautifully with this mac and cheese!
Pro Tips for Perfect Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese
Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Mac and Cheese
- Never overcook your pasta initially—it should be quite firm as it will soften during baking
- Grate cheese by hand rather than using pre-shredded to avoid grainy texture
- Let cheese come to room temperature before adding to sauce for smoother melting
- Create a smooth roux by ensuring butter and flour are well combined before adding liquids
- Always add cheese to the sauce off the heat to prevent separation
Tool Recommendations
- Large heavy-bottomed pot for even heat distribution when making the sauce
- Box grater or food processor for quick cheese preparation
- Silicone whisk that won’t scratch your cookware
- Glass or ceramic baking dish that conducts heat evenly
- Instant-read thermometer to check for proper baking temperature (should reach 160°F in center)
Storage & Reheating
This Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese can be refrigerated for up to 4 days in an airtight container. For best results when reheating:
- Add a splash of milk before reheating to restore creaminess
- Reheat in a 325°F oven covered with foil until heated through (about 20 minutes)
- For individual portions, microwave at 50% power with a damp paper towel covering to maintain moisture
Looking for more ideas? Browse my collection of comforting recipes on Pinterest where I share all my favorite crowd-pleasing dishes!
Flavor Variations for Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese
Spicy Kick
Transform the classic into a heat-lover’s dream by adding:
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce
- 1 can of drained diced green chiles
- 1/2 cup pepper jack cheese substituted for some of the Colby
Herb-Enhanced Version
For a fresh twist on Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese:
- Add 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves to the cheese sauce
- Mix in 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley before baking
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs mixed with Italian herbs on top for extra crunch
Luxurious Upgrade
For special occasions, elevate Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese with:
- 1/4 cup grated Gruyère for complex flavor
- 2 tablespoons mascarpone cheese for unbelievable creaminess
- Truffle oil drizzled on top just before serving
| Variation | Key Ingredients | Best Served With | Prep Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | Cheddar, Velveeta, Muenster, Colby | Fried Chicken, Collard Greens | 20 minutes |
| Spicy | Add cayenne, green chiles, pepper jack | BBQ Ribs, Coleslaw | 25 minutes |
| Herbed | Fresh thyme, parsley, herb breadcrumbs | Roasted Chicken, Green Salad | 25 minutes |
| Luxe | Gruyère, mascarpone, truffle oil | Steak, Roasted Vegetables | 30 minutes |
For meat lovers, my Ultimate Cheesy Ground Beef Melt makes a hearty main course to pair with this mac and cheese as a side!
Serving Suggestions for Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese
Perfect Pairings
Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese shines as both a main dish and a spectacular side. Consider serving with:
- Southern classics: Fried chicken, collard greens, cornbread
- Backyard BBQ: Smoked brisket, coleslaw, baked beans
- Elegant dinner: Roasted vegetables, crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Holiday feast: Alongside cranberry sauce and sweet potato casserole
Beverage Companions
- For the adults: Sweet tea, lemonade, or sparkling water with citrus
- For festive occasions: Apple cider (hot or cold) adds a nice contrast
Presentation Ideas
- Serve in individual ramekins for an upscale presentation
- Top with a sprinkle of smoked paprika and fresh chives just before serving
- For a stunning buffet presentation, bake in a clear glass dish to showcase the layers
Looking for an appetizer to start your meal? Try my Skillet Vegetarian Nacho Dip that’s perfect for gathering around while the mac and cheese bakes!
FAQs about Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese
Can I make Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this dish up to 2 days ahead. Assemble completely but don’t bake—cover tightly and refrigerate. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Can I freeze Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese?
While possible, freezing can slightly alter the texture. If you need to freeze, do so before baking. Thaw completely in refrigerator overnight before baking. The sauce may separate slightly, but stirring well before baking helps restore creaminess.
What can I substitute for Velveeta?
If you prefer not to use Velveeta, you can substitute American cheese from the deli counter (not singles) or make a sodium citrate solution (1 tsp sodium citrate dissolved in 2 Tbsp water) mixed with additional sharp cheddar.
Why is my sauce grainy instead of smooth?
This typically happens when cheese is added to a sauce that’s too hot or when it’s cooked at too high a temperature. Always remove your milk mixture from the heat before adding cheese, and add it gradually, stirring continuously.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Absolutely! Choose a high-quality corn/rice blend pasta that holds its shape well. The sauce may need slight adjustments—you might need to use 1-2 additional tablespoons of butter in your roux.
Conclusion
Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese isn’t just a recipe—it’s an experience that brings people together around the table. The combination of perfectly cooked pasta enrobed in a velvety cheese sauce with that signature golden crust creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
What makes this mac and cheese truly special is its ability to fit any occasion. It’s elegant enough for holiday gatherings yet comforting enough for weeknight dinners. The recipe’s flexibility allows you to make it your own while maintaining that unmistakable Patti LaBelle magic.
I encourage you to preheat your oven and give this iconic dish a try! Join thousands of home cooks who have discovered why this particular recipe has stood the test of time and continues to bring joy to tables everywhere. And when you make it, be sure to take a photo and tag me on social media—I’d love to see your Patti LaBelle’s Macaroni & Cheese masterpiece!
Remember, at Bikren Cook, we believe food is about more than just flavor—it’s about creating memories around the table. This mac and cheese recipe has certainly created countless special moments in my home, and I hope it does the same for yours.