Why This Recipe Works

Making homemade mac and cheese may seem intimidating, but this version simplifies the process, ensuring you get a creamy, cheesy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and a golden, bubbling top. The combination of Gruyère and sharp cheddar creates a wonderfully balanced flavor, while the roux-based sauce provides a smooth, velvety texture. The result is a comforting dish that is sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients

1 lb elbow macaroni
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups whole milk
2 1/2 cups half and half
4 cups medium-sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
2 cups Gruyère cheese, freshly shredded
1/2 tbsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp paprika

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven:

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set it aside.

2. Cook the pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for about 1 minute less than the package instructions for al dente. Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

3. Prepare the cheese:

While the pasta cooks, shred your cheeses. Set aside about 3 cups of the shredded cheese for the sauce, 1 1/2 cups for layering, and 1 1/2 cups for topping.

4. Make the roux and sauce:

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly until it resembles wet sand. Slowly whisk in the half and half, followed by the milk, stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.

5. Add seasonings and cheese:

Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the salt, pepper, paprika, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Then, stir in another 1 1/2 cups of cheese until the sauce is creamy and velvety.

6. Combine pasta and sauce:

In a large bowl, mix the drained pasta with the cheese sauce until it is fully coated.

7. Layer the casserole:

Pour half of the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of cheese evenly over it. Add the remaining pasta mixture on top.

8. Top with cheese:

Finish by sprinkling the last 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheese over the top.

9. Bake:

Place the dish in the oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden on top.

Pro Tips

Cook the pasta just shy of al dente: Since the pasta will cook further in the oven, slightly undercook it to avoid it becoming too soft.
Use room temperature milk and half and half: This helps create a smoother sauce without lumps.
Freshly shred your cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a smoother texture compared to pre-shredded cheese, which often contains additives.
Add crunchy toppings: For extra texture, breadcrumbs, or crushed crackers before baking.
Stovetop option: If you prefer stovetop mac and cheese, skip the baking step and serve the pasta with the sauce immediately after mixing.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven with a splash of milk to keep the mac and cheese creamy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or even macaroni elbows. Just keep in mind that different pasta shapes may affect the cooking time slightly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time. Prepare the mac and cheese up until the baking step, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature and then bake as directed.

Can I freeze this mac and cheese?

Yes, you can freeze this mac and cheese. After baking, allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by substituting the butter with a plant-based butter, the milk with a dairy-free alternative (like almond milk or oat milk), and the cheese with dairy-free cheese options. Make sure to check that all ingredients are dairy-free.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, freshly shredded cheese melts better and creates a smoother texture. If you need to use pre-shredded cheese, be aware that it may contain additives to prevent clumping, which could affect the texture of the sauce.

Can I add meat or vegetables to this mac and cheese?

Absolutely! You can add ground beef, sausage, or roasted vegetables like broccoli or spinach to customize your mac and cheese. Just stir them in when combining the pasta with the sauce.

How can I make the mac and cheese spicier?

If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese sauce or sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before baking. You can also stir in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes! If you don’t have Gruyère or cheddar, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack. However, the flavor and texture will vary depending on the cheese you choose.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from being lumpy?

Make sure to whisk the sauce constantly while adding the milk and half-and-half, and cook it over medium heat. Using room temperature milk and half-and-half will also help create a smoother sauce.

How do I make mac and cheese extra creamy?

To make mac and cheese extra creamy, you can add a bit more cream or butter to the sauce. You can also use a higher-fat milk or cream for a richer consistency.

Conclusion

This Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is everything you want in a comfort dish: creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked with a golden top. It’s easy to make, and the addition of Gruyère gives it a refined flavor, while the sharp cheddar brings that classic mac and cheese richness. Whether you serve it as a side or a main dish, this recipe will be a crowd-pleaser every time. Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with this simple and satisfying recipe!