Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia with every bite. This recipe combines perfectly cooked elbow pasta with a rich and velvety cheese sauce made from scratch, resulting in a dish that is both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering, a potluck, or simply a cozy night at home, this mac and cheese will surely impress. Let’s dive into the details of making this creamy, cheesy delight!
Ingredients
- 1 lb. elbow pasta
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 2 1/2 cups half and half
- 4 cups medium sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded
- 1/2 tablespoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- Melt Butter: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter.
- Make Roux: Once the butter is melted, add the 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour. Whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and has a light golden color.
- Add Milk and Half & Half: Slowly pour in the 1 1/2 cups of whole milk and 2 1/2 cups of half and half, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens and starts to bubble.
- Add Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and gradually add the 4 cups of shredded medium sharp cheddar cheese and 2 cups of shredded Gruyere cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season: Add the 1/2 tablespoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- Mix Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and the cheese sauce. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 4: Bake the Mac and Cheese
- Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Assemble: Pour the pasta and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve: Remove the baked mac and cheese from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight while it’s warm and gooey.
Cooking Notes
- Cheese: Shredding your own cheese is crucial for achieving the best texture and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the creaminess of the sauce.
- Milk and Half & Half: Using a combination of whole milk and half & half creates a rich and creamy sauce. For a lighter version, you can use all milk.
- Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Adding a bit of mustard powder or hot sauce can give the mac and cheese a nice kick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the mac and cheese ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature first, then bake as directed.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this mac and cheese? A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked mac and cheese. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Q: What can I serve with this mac and cheese? A: This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats for a complete meal.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of this recipe, substitute the elbow pasta with a low-carb pasta alternative like shirataki noodles or zucchini noodles. Use heavy cream instead of milk and half & half for a richer sauce, and ensure that the cheeses are full-fat and low in carbs.
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is a timeless comfort food that brings joy and satisfaction with every bite. The combination of perfectly cooked pasta and a luscious cheese sauce creates a dish that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this mac and cheese is sure to be a hit.
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