Mac and Cheese Recipe
Introduction
Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy cheese sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, delivering a nostalgic taste that warms the heart with every bite. Get ready to indulge in this cheesy delight that promises to please everyone at the table!
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
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Whisk in flour until smooth and cook for about 1 minute.
- Step 3: Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Step 5: Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
- Step 6: Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with panko bread crumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Variations
- Cook pasta one minute less than package instructions for the perfect texture when combined with the sauce.
- Grate your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded for a creamier melt.
- Try swapping cheddar for gouda or adding crispy bacon bits and sautéed veggies like broccoli or spinach.
- Spice it up by adding cayenne pepper or garlic powder to the cheese sauce.
Storage
Store leftover Mac and Cheese in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts, stirring often and adding a splash of milk for creaminess if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
What are the best cheeses for Mac and Cheese?
Sharp cheddar is traditional and full of flavor, but you can mix in gouda, mozzarella, or fontina for different textures and tastes.
Can I make Mac and Cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when ready to cook.
PrintMac and Cheese Recipe
Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy cheese sauce, perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, and a crunchy panko breadcrumb topping. This hearty baked dish delivers a nostalgic, cheesy delight that warms the heart with every bite, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
For the 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 and set aside.
- Make the Roux: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Whisk in flour until smooth and cook for about one minute while stirring continuously to develop a thick texture.
- Add Milk: Gradually pour in whole milk while whisking constantly. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy enough to coat the pasta.
- Add Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. You may add other cheeses if desired for variation.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix thoroughly so that every piece is coated in cheesy goodness.
- Bake: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle panko bread crumbs evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
Notes
- For perfect texture, cook pasta one minute less than package instructions before baking.
- Grating your own cheese yields a creamier melt than pre-shredded varieties.
- Let the cheese sauce cook gently to develop rich flavors; avoid overheating to prevent curdling.
- Feel free to customize by adding crispy bacon bits, sautéed vegetables like broccoli or spinach, or spices such as cayenne pepper or garlic powder.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave with occasional stirring, adding a splash of milk if needed for creaminess.
Keywords: mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, comfort food, cheddar cheese pasta, creamy cheese sauce, panko topping
