Cheesiest Mac and Cheese for a Crowd

Cheesiest Mac and Cheese in casserole dish with package of cheese

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5 from 7 votes

Cheesiest Mac and Cheese for a Crowd

Prep Time 25

Cook Time 30

Total Time 55

Servings

Calories 643kcal

Author Stacey Little

Ingredients

1 (16-ounce) package elbow macaroni
2 cups whole milk
2 cups half and half
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
3 (8-ounce) packages thick shredded cheddar cheese* (about 6 cups total)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Cook the pasta to just under al dente in salted water according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside. Measure milk and half and half and allow them to come to room temperature.
Preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk to combine. Cook, whisking constantly, for about 1 minute. Gradually add the milk, whisking after each addition. Slowly add the cream, whisking constantly. Continue to whisk and cook for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened. Add the salt and pepper and mix well.
Add 2 bags (4 cups) of the cheese and whisk until melted. Adjust seasoning if needed. Add the cooked macaroni and mix well. Pour half of the mixture into the prepared dish. Sprinkle one cup of the remaining cheese over the top. Add the remaining macaroni mixture. Top with remaining cheese.
Bake, uncovered, for 20 to 30 minutes or until bubbly and the cheese on the top is just starting to brown. Allow to rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

I like to use a combination of mild and sharp cheddar for the best flavor. A “triple cheddar” style blend is great, but you can also mix your own by combining different cheddars. Feel free to swap in a little Monterey Jack or Colby if you want an even creamier, milder sauce. Just make sure the majority is still cheddar so you get that classic baked macaroni and cheese flavor.

Nutrition

* If nutritional values are provided, they are an estimate and will vary depending on the brands used. The values do not include optional ingredients or when ingredients are added to taste.

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