Mac 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
Scale
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
Find it online: https://cheframi.com/mac-and-cheese-recipe/
