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Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy baked mac and cheese recipe. Featuring a rich cheese sauce and perfectly cooked elbow noodles, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Dairy
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 2 cups half & half
Pasta
  • 1 lb large elbow noodles
Base
  • 1 stick salted butter
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour
Cheese
  • 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese (freshly grated) freshly grated
  • 1 cup gouda cheese (freshly grated) freshly grated
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese (freshly grated) freshly grated
Spices
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a large baking dish.
  2. Grate all cheeses and combine them in a large bowl. Set aside.
  3. Cook elbow noodles for 2 minutes less than package directions. Drain and set aside.
  4. Melt butter, whisk in flour until smooth, and cook for 1–2 minutes.
  5. Slowly pour in cream and half & half, whisking until thickened. Add seasonings and 3 cups of cheese blend until melted.
  6. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
  7. Layer half of the mac & cheese, then half of the remaining cheese. Repeat layers.
  8. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden. Broil for an extra crispy top.
  9. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use a combination of sharp and mild cheddar cheeses.