Description
Classic creamy baked mac and cheese made with tender elbow macaroni, a rich cheddar cheese sauce, and a crispy golden panko breadcrumb topping. Perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Macaroni
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 2 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 for 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
- Make the Roux: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it becomes bubbly. Whisk in the 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 and whisking until the mixture thickens slightly into a smooth sauce.
- Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat all the pasta evenly with the creamy cheese mixture.
- Bake: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the panko bread crumbs on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a rich and tangy flavor.
- For a crispier topping, toss panko breadcrumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling on top.
- Macaroni should be cooked al dente to prevent mushy texture after baking.
- Whole milk adds creaminess, but you can substitute with 2% milk if preferred.
- Leftovers store well refrigerated for 2-3 days and can be reheated covered in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mac and cheese, baked macaroni and cheese, cheddar cheese recipe, comfort food, cheesy pasta, easy family dinner
