Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
This baked mac and cheese is a family favorite, loved by kids and adults alike. With layers of gooey cheddar and Gruyere, a creamy sauce, and a golden bubbly topping, it’s the perfect cozy dinner or holiday side dish.
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)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Oven
Heat oven to 325°F. Grease a 3-quart (9×13-inch) baking dish. - Cook Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water until just shy of al dente. Drain and drizzle lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking. - Prep Cheese
Shred cheddar and Gruyere. Divide into 3 piles: 3 cups for sauce, 1½ cups for layering, and 1½ cups for topping. - Make Roux
Melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until sandy; cook for 1 minute. - Add Milk & Cream
Slowly whisk in half and half plus milk until smooth. Cook until thickened to a creamy consistency. - Melt Cheese
Remove from heat. Stir in paprika, salt, pepper, and 3 cups of cheese until melted and smooth. - Combine Pasta & Sauce
Mix drained pasta into cheese sauce until fully coated. - Layer & Bake
Spread half of pasta mixture in dish. Top with 1½ cups cheese. Add remaining pasta, then finish with last 1½ cups cheese. Bake for 15 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
Pro Tips
- Slightly undercook pasta — it will finish cooking in the oven.
- Shred cheese from blocks for the best melt.
- Make-ahead option: assemble casserole without baking, refrigerate up to 2 days, then bake before serving.
Nutrition Information (per serving, approx.)
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 plate | 665 | 24g | 45g | 40g | 2g | 5g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
