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+ servings
Golden-brown pasta casserole with crispy topping in a white bowl.

Easy Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
This Easy Baked Macaroni and Cheese. Is a family favorite. That brings comfort and joy. With every bite. The combination of Colby Jack. And smoked cheddar cheeses. Creates a rich, creamy sauce. That perfectly coats. The tender elbow macaroni. The dish is then baked to golden perfection. With a crispy top. And a creamy, flavorful center. It's simple to make. Yet tastes like it took hours. Making it the perfect dish for both weeknight dinners. And special occasions.
8 Servings

Ingredients

  • 3 c elbow macaroni uncooked
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 c half and half warmed
  • 3 1/2 c Colby Jack cheese shredded & divided
  • 1/2 c smoked cheddar cheese shredded & divided
  • 1 1/2 c whole milk
  • 2 eggs slightly beaten
  • Salt & pepper

Instructions
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. And butter an 8x10 casserole dish.
  2. Boil the macaroni in generously seasoned water. Until just under al dente. About 7 minutes. Drain. And set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour. And cook until golden.
  4. Slowly whisk in the warmed half and half, stirring until smooth. Add 1 cup of Colby Jack cheese, stirring until creamy.
  5. Pour the cheese sauce over the macaroni, tossing to coat. Transfer to the prepared casserole dish.
  6. In a large bowl, mix the milk, 2 cups of Colby Jack cheese, and 1/4 cup of smoked cheddar cheese. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Stir in the beaten eggs.
  7. Pour the egg mixture over the macaroni. Use a spatula to distribute evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses on top.
  8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, checking at the 25-minute mark. Until golden and bubbly. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

To make this delicious Easy Baked Macaroni and Cheese gluten-free. You can easily swap out the all-purpose flour. For a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, use gluten-free elbow macaroni. To ensure the dish is safe. For those with gluten sensitivities. Be sure to check the labels on all your ingredients. Especially the cheeses and half and half. To confirm they are gluten-free. This simple adaptation. Will make the dish just as creamy and flavorful. So everyone can enjoy this comforting classic. Without any worry.
Audrey