Mac and Cheese:

Mac and Cheese:

from tastesbetterfromscratch.com
5 servings

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
  • 3/4 cup half and half
  • 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese*

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F and lightly grease an 8' square (or similar size) baking dish.

  2. 2

    Cook the macaroni to al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

  3. 3

    Make 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.

  4. 4

    Combine: Add the cooked macaroni noodles and toss to coat. Pour half or the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle ½ cup cheese over the top. Add remaining pasta and sprinkle with remaining cheese.

  5. 5

    Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted on top.