Description

Savor the ultimate comfort food with this creamy Mac and Cheese recipe. Featuring a luscious blend of sharp cheddar and creamy mozzarella, each bite delivers velvety richness crowned with a crispy, golden breadcrumb topping. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy movie nights, this dish is quick to prepare and endlessly customizable to satisfy your cravings.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
1 cup whole milk
4 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until lightly golden.
Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar until melted. Fold in cooked pasta until well coated.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Combine breadcrumbs with melted butter, sprinkle over the top, and bake uncovered for 25 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
Calories: 540
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 26g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 22g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: For added flavor, mix in cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables before baking. Experiment with cheese varieties like Gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; reheat adding a splash of milk for creaminess.