Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for family dinners, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a rich and cheesy dish. This recipe uses a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheeses for a creamy, flavorful sauce that envelops tender elbow pasta. Let’s dive into this classic and indulgent recipe step-by-step.
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 until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- Melt Butter:
- In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add Flour:
- Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux. It should be slightly bubbly and light golden in color.
- Add Milk and Half and Half:
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk and half and half until smooth. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Cheese:
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheeses until fully melted and smooth.
- Season:
- Add the salt, black pepper, and paprika, stirring to combine.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- Mix Pasta and Sauce:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.
Step 4: Bake the Mac and Cheese
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the baked mac and cheese from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy masterpiece!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Cheese: Shred your own cheese for the best texture and melting. Pre-shredded cheese contains additives that can affect the creaminess of the sauce.
- Pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven and absorb the cheese sauce.
- Spices: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your taste. A pinch of nutmeg can add a nice depth of flavor.
Variations
Spicy Mac and Cheese
- Add Spice:
- Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or 1-2 diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Bacon Mac and Cheese
- Add Bacon:
- Mix in 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon before baking for a smoky flavor.
Veggie Mac and Cheese
- Add Vegetables:
- Stir in 1 cup of steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach for a veggie-packed version.
Serving Suggestions
With Sides
- With Salad:
- Serve with a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal.
- With Bread:
- Pair with garlic bread or dinner rolls for a complete comfort food experience.
With Beverages
- With Soda:
- Enjoy with a cold soda or iced tea for a refreshing drink.
- With Wine:
- Serve with a glass of white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the point of baking, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
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 mac and cheese? A: Yes, you can freeze the mac and cheese before baking. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Q: What if I don’t have Gruyere cheese? A: You can substitute Gruyere with Swiss cheese or additional cheddar cheese.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use any short pasta shape like penne, rotini, or shells.
Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. With its rich cheese sauce and tender pasta, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this mac and cheese is always delicious and satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish with your loved ones!
