Description
Indulge in this creamy Mac and Cheese recipe, a timeless comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion! With its velvety cheese sauce enveloping tender elbow macaroni, it’s a dish that delights both kids and adults alike. This version is not only easy to prepare in under 30 minutes but also offers room for customization. You can add your favorite vegetables like broccoli or spinach for a nutritious twist. Finished with a crunchy panko topping, this baked Mac and Cheese is sure to impress at family gatherings or cozy nights in. Experience the rich flavors and satisfying texture of this beloved classic!
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- Cook the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, add macaroni, and cook until al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Make the roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour until smooth. Cook for about 1 minute.
- Add milk: Gradually whisk in milk and cook until slightly thickened (3-5 minutes).
- Incorporate cheese: Remove from heat, stir in shredded cheddar until melted.
- Combine: Mix cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until well coated.
- Bake: Pour mixture into a greased baking dish, sprinkle with panko, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 55mg