Description
Classic Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese made with a rich homemade cheese sauce, cheddar, and Gruyère, baked until golden and bubbly.
Ingredients
1 lb elbow pasta
½ cup unsalted butter
½ cup all-purpose flour
1½ cups whole milk
2½ cups half and half
4 cups medium sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
½ Tbsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp paprika
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 325°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook pasta one minute less than al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Melt butter, whisk in flour, and cook 1 minute.
4. Gradually whisk in half and half, then milk, until thickened.
5. Remove from heat, add spices and 3 cups cheese until smooth.
6. Mix cheese sauce with pasta.
7. Layer pasta and remaining cheese in baking dish.
8. Bake uncovered for 15 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.
Notes
Always shred cheese fresh.
Do not overbake to keep creamy texture.
Add breadcrumbs if desired for crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American