I never have to worry about leftovers when I make this recipe

Creamy baked mac and cheese is the epitome of comfort food, combining the rich, smooth texture of cheese with the comforting familiarity of pasta. This classic dish has been a staple in American cuisine for decades, enjoyed by children and adults alike. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, creamy baked mac and cheese is a favorite at family dinners, holiday gatherings, and potlucks.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Melt Butter: In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Add Flour: Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux. It should be slightly bubbly and light golden in color.
3. Add Milk and Half and Half: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and half and half until smooth. Continue to cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture begins to thicken, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheeses until fully melted and smooth.
5. Season: Add the salt, black pepper, and paprika, stirring to combine.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

1. Mix Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta and cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce.

Step 4: Bake the Mac and Cheese

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mac and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
3. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

1. Cool and Serve: Remove the baked mac and cheese from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy masterpiece!