So feel free to use less or more salt, or add onion powder, mustard powder, or Cajun seasoning. Taste as you go: The great thing about homemade mac and cheese is that you can adjust the taste to your liking.This will create a smooth, velvety consistency. Add the milk slowly: To prevent clumpy sauce, slowly add the milk and cream to the flour mixture and whisk continuously.Pre-grated cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent the cheese from melting properly. Grate your own cheese: While pre-grated cheese is convenient, the flavor and texture will be so much better if you grate it yourself.This prevents the macaroni from sticking, absorbing too much liquid, and getting bloated or mushy. Coat in butter: I like to lightly coat my pasta in butter.Don’t overcook the pasta: If you plan on baking your Popeyes macaroni and cheese, cook the noodles until just al dente because they will continue cooking in the oven.I recommend 2 teaspoons per quart of water. Season the pasta water: The key to excellent macaroni and cheese is to season the cooking water with salt.

Want to know more? I’m happy to share all of my tips and tricks for the best Popeyes mac and cheese recipe.

How to make mac n cheese ahead of time