Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring it to a boil, then add the elbow pasta. Cook for one minute less than the package instructions for a perfect al dente texture.
- Drain the pasta thoroughly and toss it with a splash of olive oil to keep it from sticking.
- While the pasta cooks, shred the cheddar and Gruyere cheeses yourself. It’s important to avoid pre-shredded cheese here as it contains anti-caking agents that affect meltability.
- Mix the shredded cheeses together and divide them into three portions: 3 cups for the sauce, 1 1/2 cups for layering, and 1 1/2 cups for topping.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour until fully combined, resulting in a texture resembling wet sand. Cook for about one minute while whisking constantly.
- Gradually whisk in the half and half until smooth, then add the whole milk. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in salt, black pepper, and paprika. Add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheese to the sauce and stir until melted and smooth. Add the remaining 1 1/2 cups, stirring until it’s fully incorporated and creamy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained pasta with the creamy cheese sauce, mixing well to ensure even coating.
- Pour half of the cheesy pasta mixture into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese evenly over this layer.
- Add the remaining pasta mixture on top, followed by spreading the last 1 1/2 cups of cheese over everything.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until the mac and cheese is bubbly and the top is lightly golden brown. Serve hot for the best experience!
Best ways to enjoy it
Once your creamy baked mac and cheese is ready, there are endless ways to enjoy it! Serve it hot from the oven, ideally accompanied by a fresh side salad for a touch of brightness. Consider pairing it with roasted vegetables for a heartier meal or grilled chicken for additional protein. And if you’re feeling adventurous, add a sprinkle of crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms on top for added flavor and texture.
Storage and reheating tips
If you happen to have leftovers (though that might be a challenge!), store your creamy baked mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use a microwave, ensuring you add a splash of milk to keep it creamy. If you find yourself with more than a few servings, you can freeze it for up to two months. Freeze it before baking for the best results, and just add extra cooking time when you’re ready to eat.
Helpful cooking tips
- Shredding your own cheese: This may take a minute longer, but it significantly affects the texture and meltability of the cheese. Trust us; the difference is worth it!
- Don’t skip the olive oil: Tossing the pasta with olive oil not only prevents sticking but adds a subtle flavor enhancement.
- Adjust spices to your taste: Feel free to experiment with spices like garlic powder or a dash of cayenne for a little heat.
Creative twists
Looking for ways to change things up? Here are some variations to consider:
- Add veggies: Mix in steamed broccoli, spinach, or even roasted red peppers for a nutritional boost.
- Spicy version: Incorporate jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the cheese sauce for a kick.
- Different cheese combos: Experiment with other cheese varieties like fontina, mozzarella, or even blue cheese for a gourmet touch.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
- The total prep and cook time for this recipe is about 45 minutes.
Can I use gluten-free pasta?
- Absolutely! Substitute with your favorite gluten-free pasta and enjoy the same creamy goodness.
What can I substitute for Gruyere cheese?
- If you can’t find Gruyere, a good alternative would be Swiss cheese or Emmental, which will provide a similar flavor profile.
If comfort food is what you’re after, this creamy baked mac and cheese recipe will undoubtedly become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Get ready to dig into a bowl of creamy goodness guaranteed to warm your heart and fill your stomach!
