CREAMY BAKED MAC AND CHEESE

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese
Baked mac and cheese is the epitome of comfort food, beloved for its creamy, cheesy goodness. While there are countless variations, each with its own special twist, this recipe has been a family favorite for years. It’s rich, decadent, and perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to holiday gatherings. Here’s how to make this delicious dish that your family will love.

Ingredients

• Pasta:
  • 1 lb. dry elbow macaroni pasta
• Cheese Sauce:
  • ½ cup salted butter
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk, at room temperature (2% or whole milk)
  • 2 cups half-and-half, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 12 ounces cubed Velveeta cheese, at room temperature
  • 3 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese, divided (at room temperature)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon dry mustard
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Pinch of nutmeg

Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep:

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
• Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray and set it aside.

2. Cook the Pasta:

• In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the elbow macaroni for about 8 minutes, which is 1 minute less than the package instructions for al dente. This ensures the pasta doesn’t overcook in the oven.
• Drain the pasta and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent it from sticking together.

3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce: