Cheddar Gruyère Mac and Cheese

By:

Thomas

Published:

December 30, 2025

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Cheddar Gruyère Mac and Cheese brings a comforting wave of nostalgia and satisfaction that warms the soul. There’s something magical about curling up with a bowl of this creamy, cheesy dish, isn’t there? The combination of sharp cheddar and nutty Gruyère creates a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds. It’s not just any macaroni and cheese; this recipe takes comfort food to another level. Picture yourself savoring each forkful of velvety sauce that clings to perfectly cooked pasta, topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb finish. Whether it’s a cozy Friday night or a festive gathering, this dish promises to be a showstopper. Plus, the best part? It’s surprisingly easy to prepare! Let’s walk through how to create this delightful Cheddar Gruyère Mac and Cheese that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why This Recipe Works

Cheddar Gruyère Mac and Cheese represents the perfect blend of flavors and textures. The sharpness of cheddar harmonizes beautifully with the nuttiness of Gruyère, creating a creamy, rich sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. This umami-packed dish is customizable and can be easily adapted to suit your taste preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Cheddar Gruyère Mac and Cheese

This mac and cheese is more than just comfort food; it’s a celebration of cheese! Whether enjoyed as a standalone meal or served as a delightful side dish, its creamy texture and crispy topping will make your taste buds sing. Easy to prepare for both casual Friday nights and festive gatherings alike, it promises satisfaction in every bite.

Ingredients

1 lb short pasta (macaroni, cavatappi, or shells)
6 Tbsp butter, divided
¼ cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
½ tsp garlic powder (or 1-2 cloves minced)
¼ tsp ground mustard
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp sea salt
½ tsp black pepper
4 cups cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
2 cups Gruyère cheese, freshly shredded
1⅓ cups breadcrumbs
1½-2 Tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)

Preparing the Pasta

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon of butter. Transfer to a bowl and let cool slightly.

Creating the Cheese Sauce

Mix the Cheeses: In a large bowl, combine all the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheese. Reserve 1½ cups for later use.
Make the Roux: In a saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until well combined and cook until light golden, about 2–3 minutes.
Add the Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in 2 cups of whole milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking as you add the remaining milk and the heavy cream. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
Incorporate the Cheeses and Seasonings: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 2 cups of the cheese mixture until melted. Add the remaining cheese, garlic powder, ground mustard, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix until fully combined.

Baking the Mac and Cheese

Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared dish. Stir well to ensure the cheese sauce evenly coats the pasta. Pour any remaining sauce on top and sprinkle with the reserved shredded cheese.
Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the cheese.
Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with a golden toast on top. Let cool for about 10 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Cheddar Gruyère Mac and Cheese with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

Tips for Success

Use freshly grated cheese for optimal melting.
Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

Variations

Add sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Incorporate cooked bacon or ham for a heartier dish.

Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Pairing Ideas

Complement this dish with a crisp white wine or a light lager. A simple green salad also works wonderfully to balance the richness.

FAQs

1. Can I use non-dairy milk in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute non-dairy milk options such as almond milk or oat milk, but the flavor and creaminess will differ slightly.

2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

3. Can I freeze Cheddar Gruyère Mac and Cheese?
Yes! Allow it to cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

4. How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce seems too thick.

5. What type of cheese works best?
Using a mix of sharp cheddar and Gruyère provides the best flavor, but feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses!

Cheddar Gruyère Mac and Cheese is a dish that hits the sweet spot of comfort and culinary delight. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or at a festive gathering, its cheesy richness caters to both casual and formal occasions alike. Don’t forget to share this recipe with family and friends for endless enjoyment around the dinner table!