Description
Discover the ultimate baked mac and cheese recipe, a creamy, cheesy casserole that’s a step above boxed versions. Perfect for family dinners, this comforting dish is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Optional: Breadcrumbs for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring, until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar cheese, Gruyere cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- If desired, sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For an extra cheesy topping, you can add more cheese on top before baking.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations, such as Monterey Jack or Colby.
- Ensure your milk and cream are at room temperature for a smoother sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 120mg