Baked Mac and Cheese

This classic Southern baked mac and cheese is pure comfort in a dish — creamy inside, golden on top, and packed with rich cheesy flavor. A perfect side dish for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday feasts.

Prep Time: 25 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 10

Ingredients

• 1 lb elbow macaroni
• ½ cup butter
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups half and half
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups Colby Jack cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Gruyere cheese, shredded
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp dry mustard powder
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Topping (optional):

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp butter, melted

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Oven & Dish
   Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook Pasta
   Boil pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make Cheese Sauce
   Melt butter in a saucepan. Whisk in flour; cook 1 minute. Slowly add milk and half & half. Simmer until thickened. Stir in seasonings.
4. Add Cheese
   Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, Colby Jack, and Gruyere until smooth and creamy.
5. Combine Pasta & Sauce
   Mix pasta with cheese sauce until fully coated. Spread evenly into prepared dish.
6. Optional Topping
   Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly on top for crunch.
7. Bake
   Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, until golden and bubbly. Let rest 10 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

• For a smoky kick, add smoked paprika or cayenne to the sauce.
• Colby Jack adds a creamier melt — but feel free to swap with Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
• For a crisp topping, broil the casserole for 1–2 minutes at the end.

Nutrition Information (per serving, approx.)

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 plate	590	23g	42g	33g	2g	5g

Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.

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