Baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, and this recipe promises the creamiest, most indulgent version you’ll ever taste. With a rich, velvety cheese sauce made from cheddar and Gruyere, every bite is pure cheesy bliss. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb dried elbow macaroni pasta
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups half and half
- 4 cups medium cheddar cheese, grated and divided
- 2 cups Gruyere cheese, grated and divided
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Roux:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 1-2 minutes until a smooth, bubbly paste forms. This is your roux.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- Gradually add the whole milk and half and half to the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add 3 cups of grated cheddar cheese and 1 1/2 cups of Gruyere cheese to the sauce, reserving the remaining cheese for the topping. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season the Sauce:
- Stir in the ground mustard, ground nutmeg, Kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix well to incorporate all the flavors.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Pour the macaroni and cheese into the prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of Gruyere cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake the Mac and Cheese:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
- Serve:
- Let the baked mac and cheese cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy hot as a main dish or side.
Cook’s Tips and Variations
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, or even a bit of blue cheese for an extra kick.
- Breadcrumb Topping: For a crunchy topping, mix 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese before baking.
- Add-Ins: Enhance the dish with add-ins like cooked bacon bits, caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend to make the roux if you need a gluten-free version.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a spicy variation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese? A: While you can use pre-shredded cheese, freshly grated cheese is recommended as it melts better and has fewer additives that can affect the texture of the sauce.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave.
Q: Can I freeze baked mac and cheese? A: Yes, you can freeze it. Allow the dish to cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
Q: What can I serve with mac and cheese? A: Mac and cheese pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or a juicy steak for a complete meal.
Q: How can I make this dish lighter? A: To lighten the dish, use reduced-fat cheese, milk, and half and half. You can also incorporate more vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini.
The Creamiest Baked Mac and Cheese is a delectable comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, velvety cheese sauce and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is a surefire hit. Enjoy the ultimate cheesy indulgence with this classic baked mac and cheese!
Delight in the creamy, cheesy goodness of this Baked Mac and Cheese, a dish that’s perfect for bringing comfort and joy to any meal. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home. Happy cooking
