Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food, but Ina Garten’s version elevates it by using high-quality cheeses and a well-balanced béchamel sauce.
2 cups elbow macaroni
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 ½ cups grated Gruyère cheese
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
½ cup breadcrumbs (optional topping)
Cook the pasta: Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Prepare the roux: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and stir in flour to form a paste.
Make the béchamel sauce: Gradually add milk and cream while whisking until smooth and thickened.
Add cheese: Stir in Gruyère and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Season the sauce: Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
Combine pasta and sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until well coated.
Transfer to baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
Add topping (optional): Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top for a crispy finish.
Bake the dish: Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25–30 minutes until golden and bubbling.
Serve warm: Let it rest briefly before serving.