Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add your choice of short pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. It's essential to remember that the pasta will continue to cook slightly when baked, so keep it a bit firm. After draining, toss the pasta with 1 tablespoon of butter to coat it and prevent sticking. Set aside to cool slightly in a large bowl.
Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Once melted, add flour to create a roux, whisking consistently until it turns a light golden brown. This step is crucial as it serves as the base for your creamy cheese sauce. Slowly pour in 2 cups of whole milk, whisking constantly to avoid any clumps. Keep stirring until the mixture becomes smooth and thickens slightly, resembling a creamy soup.
Add the Cream: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the heavy cream, ensuring it's well incorporated. This addition makes your sauce incredibly rich and decadent. Next, fold in about 2 cups of the prepared cheese mixture, stirring until melted and fully combined. Add the remaining cheddar and gruyère cheeses, followed by garlic powder, ground mustard, paprika, sea salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is fully incorporated and the sauce is velvety.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the reserved pasta. Use a spatula to gently fold everything together, ensuring each piece of pasta is generously coated with the sauce. This step is essential for achieving a rich and satisfying bite every time.
Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish or casserole with a bit of butter to prevent sticking. Pour the mac and cheese mixture into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly. If desired, pour any remaining cheese sauce over the top for extra cheesiness.
Add Toppings: To finish, sprinkle the remaining cheddar and gruyère cheese on top. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with a drizzle of olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer. This will create a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta underneath.
Bake the Mac and Cheese: Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbling and golden brown. The breadcrumbs should also become crispy, adding texture to your dish.
Cool and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the Cheddar Gruyère Mac and Cheese cool for about 10 minutes. This will help the dish set, making it easier to serve. Scoop generous portions into bowls and enjoy the warmth and richness of this comforting meal.
