Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Baked Mac And Cheese recipe. This dish combines perfectly cooked elbow pasta with a velvety cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and Gruyere, creating a mouthwatering experience that warms the soul. Ideal for family dinners, cozy nights in, or festive gatherings, this macaroni and cheese is not just a meal; it’s a nostalgic journey back to childhood. Customize it with your favorite mix-ins like crispy bacon or fresh veggies for an extra touch of flavor. With easy preparation steps and simple ingredients, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy casserole that everyone will adore.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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 Gruyere cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the elbow pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually add half and half and milk, stirring until thickened.
- Stir in spices and cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Combine pasta with cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl.
- Layer half the mixture in the baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, then add the remaining mixture on top.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until golden and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg