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Creamy baked mac and cheese made with sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, and mozzarella cheese
ThymetoSauté

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese

This creamy baked mac and cheese is made with freshly grated sharp cheddar, Colby Jack, and mozzarella for the perfect balance of flavor and melt. Rich, comforting, and family-approved.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 10
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb sharp cheddar cheese freshly grated
  • 1 lb Colby Jack cheese freshly grated
  • ½ lb mozzarella cheese freshly grated
  • 1 lb pasta
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1½ teaspoons powdered mustard
  • 1 12 oz can evaporated milk
  • 2 cups heavy cream

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a baking dish.
  2. Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
  3. Mix all grated cheeses together and divide in half.
  4. Melt butter over medium heat, careful not to brown.
  5. Whisk in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and mustard.
  6. Add flour one tablespoon at a time, whisking constantly for 1 minute.
  7. Slowly whisk in evaporated milk and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle bubble and thicken.
  8. Reduce heat to low and add half of the cheese, stirring until melted.
  9. Layer pasta, cheese sauce, and remaining cheese in baking dish.
  10. Bake for 25 minutes. Broil for 2–3 minutes for a crispy top if desired.
  11. Notes:
  12. For a creamier mac, add an extra ½ cup of heavy cream.