Description
This Creamy Southern Baked Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a rich, comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy a family favorite with a golden, cheesy crust and a smooth, decadent interior.
Ingredients
 
							Scale
													 
 - 1 pound elbow macaroni
 - 1/2 cup butter
 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
 - 3 cups milk
 - 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
 - 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
 - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
 - 2 tablespoons melted butter
 
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
 - Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
 - In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.
 - Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until thickened.
 - Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese and Gruyere cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
 - Add cooked macaroni to cheese sauce and stir to combine.
 - Pour macaroni mixture into prepared baking dish.
 - In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle over macaroni.
 - Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
 - Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
 
Notes
- Use high-quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor.
 - Gruyere cheese adds a nutty, complex flavor. Substitute with another cheese if needed.
 - Adjust salt and pepper to your taste.
 - For a crispier topping, broil for the last few minutes of baking. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
 
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
 - Cook Time: 25 minutes
 - Category: Main Course
 - Method: Baking
 - Cuisine: Southern
 
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
 - Calories: 450
 - Sugar: 5g
 - Sodium: 500mg
 - Fat: 25g
 - Saturated Fat: 15g
 - Unsaturated Fat: 8g
 - Trans Fat: 1g
 - Carbohydrates: 40g
 - Fiber: 2g
 - Protein: 20g
 - Cholesterol: 80mg