Baked Macaroni and Cheese Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic

Macaroni and cheese - a comfort food classic that never fails to satisfy our cravings. While boxed options are convenient, they can't compare to the rich, creamy flavor of homemade baked macaroni and cheese. In this recipe, we'll show you how to make this comforting dish from scratch, using just a few simple ingredients and less than an hour of your time.

The key to this recipe is the combination of cheeses used. Gruyere and sharp cheddar are a match made in heaven, adding depth and complexity to the dish. But it's not just about the cheese - elbow macaroni noodles are essential for creating that perfect balance of creamy sauce and al dente pasta.

To make this baked macaroni and cheese recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:

* 8 oz elbow macaroni

* 2 cups grated Gruyere cheese

* 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese

* 1/4 cup unsalted butter

* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

* 2 cups whole milk

* Salt and pepper to taste

Once you have your ingredients, it's easy to prepare this comforting dish. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, then set aside. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and add the flour, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Slowly pour in the whole milk, whisking until smooth, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens.

Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the Gruyere and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add cooked macaroni noodles to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Transfer the macaroni mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.

The result is a creamy, cheesy baked macaroni and cheese recipe that's sure to become a family favorite. With its crispy buttery crust and comforting flavors, this dish is perfect for any occasion - whether it's a weeknight dinner or a holiday meal. So why settle for boxed macaroni and cheese when you can make this delicious homemade version in under an hour? Try it tonight and see the difference for yourself!

Baked macaroni and cheese recipe