When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite beats a bowl of creamy baked mac and cheese. This recipe is a time-honored favorite, blending perfectly cooked pasta with a velvety, rich cheese sauce that creates a dish brimming with flavor and nostalgia. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a chilly evening or a delightful side for your next gathering, this creamy baked mac and cheese is sure to satisfy and bring smiles to the table.
Why you’ll love this dish
This creamy baked mac and cheese isn’t just your average pasta dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and comfort that you and your family will adore. What sets it apart is its rich blend of medium sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheeses, which provide that perfect balance of sharpness and creaminess. You’ll appreciate its simplicity, making it an ideal midweek dinner or a festive side for holidays and special occasions.
"This is the ultimate mac and cheese recipe! It’s creamy, cheesy, and my kids ask for it every week. I’ll never buy pre-packaged again!" – A Happy Home Cook
Step-by-step overview
Making this creamy baked mac and cheese is a straightforward process that involves a few simple steps, ensuring that even novice cooks can tackle it with confidence. You’ll start with cooking the pasta, followed by creating a rich cheese sauce, and finally, layering everything into a baking dish before baking to perfection. It’s a satisfying cooking journey that leads to an irresistible dish for all.
What you’ll need
To create your creamy baked mac and cheese, gather these essential 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 (not pre-shredded)
- 2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded (not pre-shredded)
- 1/2 Tbsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 1/4 tsp. paprika
- Olive oil, a splash (to prevent pasta sticking)
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to personalize the flavor to your liking!
