THE CREAMIEST BAKED MAC AND CHEESE

1 lb dried elbow macaroni pasta

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

2 cups half and half

4 cups medium cheddar cheese, grated and divided

2 cups Gruyere cheese, grated and divided

1/2 teaspoon ground mustard

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1 teaspoon Kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat oven to 325°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the macaroni 1 minute less than package directions indicate. Drain and toss with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.

While pasta cooks, melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute, whisking frequently. Gradually whisk in milk and half and half, whisking constantly, and cook until thickened …