Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese

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

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.

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.

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

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.