Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our creamy Mac and Cheese recipe. This classic dish effortlessly combines al dente elbow macaroni with a rich, velvety cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and whole milk. Topped with a crunchy layer of panko breadcrumbs, this Mac and Cheese is perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or special gatherings. Quick to prepare and customizable to your taste, this dish is bound to please kids and adults alike. Whether you enjoy it as-is or jazz it up with crispy bacon or fresh vegetables, every bite promises warmth and nostalgia.
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 elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth, cooking for about 1 minute.
- Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until well coated.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with panko breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg