Classic Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Panko Topping Recipe

Introduction

Mac and cheese is a timeless comfort food loved by all ages. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, this baked version elevates the classic dish for a cozy meal.

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly. Whisk in the flour until smooth and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Step 3: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Step 4: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
5. Step 5: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat the pasta evenly.
6. Step 6: Transfer the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the panko bread crumbs evenly over the top.
7. Step 7: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crispy.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream when mixing the cheese sauce.
• Mix in cooked bacon bits or sautéed onions for added flavor.
• Use a combination of cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a different cheesy profile.
• Swap panko for crushed Ritz crackers for a richer crumb topping.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use different pasta shapes?

Yes, while elbow macaroni is traditional, you can use shells, rotini, or any pasta that holds sauce well.

Is it necessary to bake the mac and cheese?

Baking adds a crunchy topping and deeper flavor, but you can serve it immediately after combining pasta and cheese sauce if you prefer a creamier, softer dish.

Classic Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Panko Topping Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 107 reviews

• Author: Victor
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Classic baked Mac and Cheese featuring creamy cheddar cheese sauce, tender elbow macaroni, and a crunchy golden panko breadcrumb topping. This comforting dish combines a rich roux-based cheese sauce with pasta baked to perfection for a delightful home-cooked meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 8 oz elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Topping

• 1 cup panko bread crumbs

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside.
2. Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until bubbly. Whisk in the all-purpose flour until smooth and cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Add Milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens slightly to a creamy consistency.
4. Add Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well to ensure each piece is coated evenly.
6. Bake: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the panko bread crumbs evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crisp.

Notes

• For extra creaminess, consider adding a splash of cream or half-and-half instead of all milk.
• Feel free to mix different types of cheese, such as Gruyere or Monterey Jack, for added flavor.
• To make the topping even more flavorful, toss the panko crumbs with melted butter and a pinch of paprika before sprinkling.
• This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, cheddar cheese pasta, comfort food, creamy mac and cheese, easy dinner