This lazy baked macaroni and cheese recipe is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a delicious and comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It requires minimal effort and few ingredients, but delivers a creamy and flavorful dish that everyone will love. The secret to this recipe is using a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheese, which gives the mac and cheese a rich and complex flavor. Serve it as a main course or as a side dish alongside your favorite meat or vegetables.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Directions
- Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, until the mixture is smooth and bubbling.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and continue cooking, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and comes to a simmer.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Gruyere cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well coated.
- Pour the macaroni and cheese into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
