Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and toss with 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Mix all shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheese in a large bowl, reserving 1½ cups.
- Make a roux by melting 6 tablespoons of butter and whisking in flour until golden.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and cream until slightly thickened.
- Incorporate the cheese mixture and seasonings until melted and combined.
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a baking dish.
- Combine the pasta with the cheese sauce, ensuring even coating.
- Sprinkle reserved cheese and breadcrumb mixture on top.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden. Cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for better melting.
Avoid overcooking the pasta as it will continue to cook while baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 700
- Fat: 30
- Saturated Fat: 18
- Unsaturated Fat: 10
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 52
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 22
- Cholesterol: 80