Description
This classic Mac and Cheese recipe features tender elbow macaroni in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce, topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection. It’s an irresistible comfort food that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Topping
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Make the Roux: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly. Whisk in the all-purpose flour until smooth and continue cooking for about 1 minute to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Add Milk: Gradually pour the whole milk into the roux while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the mixture until it thickens slightly, creating a creamy base for the cheese sauce.
- Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth, creating a rich cheese sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir gently to make sure all the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
- 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 top turns golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- You can substitute sharp cheddar with a blend of cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyere for different flavor profiles.
- For a creamier texture, use half-and-half or add a splash of heavy cream.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and bread crumbs.
- Let the Mac and Cheese rest for a few minutes after baking for easier serving.
- Add cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for extra flavor and texture variations.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mac and cheese, baked macaroni and cheese, comfort food, cheddar cheese pasta, creamy mac and cheese, easy dinner recipe
