Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

Steps

• 1

  Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan with butter.
• 2

  In a large pot, combine equal parts water and chicken broth just enough to cook your macaroni in. Bring to a boil on the stovetop. Add macaroni and cook until al dente according to package instructions (usually about 7-8 minutes). When macaroni is done, drain and set aside in a large pot or bowl.
• 3

  In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter, then whisk in the flour. Cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly. Continuing to whisk, add in 1 cup chicken broth, half-and-half, and milk; continue whisking until fully combined. The mixture should steam but not boil, so adjust your heat accordingly. Add in the cream cheese and stir until completely melted.
• 4

  Remove pot from heat and add in cheese, stirring until smooth. Pour cheese mixture over cooked macaroni, add black pepper and stir to combine.
• 5

  Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to the greased 9x9-inch pan. Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until slightly jiggly, making sure not to overcook. Once finished baking, allow to sit for 5-10 minutes before serving, as the macaroni will set as it cools.