⏳ Yield & Time

Yield: 4 servings

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

🍽 Ingredients

• 1 pound Elbow Macaroni
• 1/2 cup Butter
• 1/2 cup All-purpose Flour
• 3 cups Milk
• 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese
• 1 cup Gruyere Cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt

📖 Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a perfectly bubbly and gooey finish.
2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 pound of elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions, until al dente (a little firm to the bite). Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Don't rinse—we need that pasta starch for a creamy sauce!
3. Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) of butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to make a roux. This will thicken the sauce. If you burn the roux, start over! It happens to the best of us. Just grab another stick of butter.
4. Gradually whisk in 3 cups of milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly. You know you're there when it coats the back of a spoon like a luxurious velvety dream.
5. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 cup of shredded Gruyere cheese (or any other cheese you fancy!), and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Continue stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This is my favorite part. The moment of cheesy perfection.
6. Stir in the cooked pasta: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat every strand of pasta evenly. The sauce should nicely cling to the pasta, making each bite a delicious, cheesy adventure.
7. Pour into a baking dish: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle a little extra cheese on top for good measure, because why not?
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. Watch closely to avoid burning. You'll know it's perfect when you see those little crispy bits on the top!
9. Let it rest (slightly): Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the cheese sauce to set slightly, making it easier to serve without a total cheesy avalanche.

📝 Notes

• Adjust seasoning to your preference. Don't be shy with the cheese!