Classic Homemade Mac and Cheese with a simple, creamy cheese sauce, baked to perfection in the oven.
Ingredients
- 1/2 lb uncooked elbow macaroni (*)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups milk (, any kind)
- 3/4 cup half and half
- 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese*
Instructions
- 1Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F and lightly grease an 8' square (or similar size) baking dish.
- 2Cook the macaroni to al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- 3Make the sauce: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Blend in the flour, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes. Slowly add the milk and half and half, stirring constantly, and cook over medium-low heat for a few minutes until the mixture has thickened like the consistency of gravy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup shredded cheese, stirring just until melted.
- 4Combine: Add the cooked macaroni noodles and toss to coat. Pour half or the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle 1/2 cup cheese over the top. Add remaining pasta and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- 5Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted on top.