Description

Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy, melted cheese with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. This dish features a golden-brown crust that adds delightful texture, making it an irresistible choice for family dinners or gatherings. Simple to prepare and customizable with your favorite ingredients, this recipe guarantees warm, cheesy satisfaction with every bite. Dive into this nostalgic delight and create delicious memories around your table.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 cups whole milk
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour, cooking for one minute until bubbly. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously until thickened (about five minutes).
Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine drained macaroni with cheese sauce until well coated. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
Top with panko breadcrumbs and drizzle melted butter over them for extra crispiness.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown. Serve hot.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 420
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for added flavor. For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or cooked bacon to the mix. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat in the oven or microwave.