Classic Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Nothing says comfort food like a bubbling dish of baked mac and cheese. This family-favorite recipe is creamy, cheesy, and topped with a golden layer that’s impossible to resist. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a holiday table centerpiece.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8
Ingredients
- 1 lb dried elbow pasta
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups whole milk
- 2½ cups half and half
- 4 cups shredded medium cheddar cheese (divided)
- 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese (divided)
- ½ tbsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
Equipment Needed:
- 9×13-inch baking dish (3 qt)
- Saucepan
- Large pot
- Whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep Oven & Dish
Preheat oven to 325°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. - Cook Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta 1 minute less than al dente. Drain and drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking. - Shred & Divide Cheese
Mix shredded cheddar and Gruyere together. Divide into 3 piles:- 3 cups for cheese sauce
- 1½ cups for inner layer
- 1½ cups for topping
- Make Cheese Sauce
Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour; cook 1 minute. Slowly add milk and half & half, whisking until smooth and slightly thickened. Stir in salt, pepper, and paprika. Add 3 cups cheese in 2 additions, whisking until creamy. - Assemble Casserole
Stir cooked pasta into cheese sauce until coated. Spread half into baking dish, sprinkle with 1½ cups cheese, then layer remaining pasta. Top with the last 1½ cups cheese. - Bake
Bake uncovered for 15 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips
- Slightly undercook pasta so it stays firm after baking.
- Shred your own cheese — it melts creamier than pre-shredded.
- Add crispy bacon, breadcrumbs, or panko topping for extra crunch.
Nutrition Information (per serving, approx.)
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 plate | 665 | 25g | 44g | 38g | 2g | 6g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated and may vary depending on ingredients used. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
