Description
A classic and comforting Mac and Cheese recipe that is creamy, cheesy, and topped with crispy breadcrumbs. This homemade version is easy to make and perfect for a cozy family dinner.
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 elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain 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 1 minute.
- Add Milk: Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add Cheese: Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
- Bake: 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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Mac and Cheese, Baked Macaroni and Cheese, Comfort Food, Pasta Recipe
