Creamy Baked Mac Cheese (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

01 - 1 pound dried elbow pasta.
02 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter.
03 - 1/2 cup all-purpose flour.
04 - 1 1/2 cups whole milk.
05 - 2 1/2 cups half and half.
06 - 4 cups shredded medium cheddar cheese.
07 - 2 cups shredded Gruyere cheese.
08 - 1/2 tablespoon salt.
09 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
10 - 1/4 teaspoon paprika.

# Instructions:

01 - Heat oven to 325°F. Grease 9x13 inch baking dish. Shred and divide cheese into three portions.
02 - Boil pasta 1 minute less than package directions. Drain and coat with oil to prevent sticking.
03 - Melt butter, whisk in flour and cook 1 minute. Gradually add milk and half and half, whisking until smooth.
04 - Cook until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in spices and cheese portions in stages until melted.
05 - Mix pasta with sauce. Layer half in dish, add cheese, then remaining pasta and top with final cheese portion.
06 - Bake for 15 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden.

# Notes:

01 - Can be made ahead and baked later.
02 - Try five-cheese variation for different flavor.
03 - Broil for crunchier top if desired.

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