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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Add Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well to ensure each piece is coated evenly.
- 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
