Description
Baked mac and cheese is a timeless comfort food that delights with every bite. This creamy dish features al dente pasta enveloped in a rich cheese sauce, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust for the perfect crunch. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this recipe is as satisfying to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: In a large pot of salted water, cook the elbow macaroni until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Create the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour until bubbly, then gradually add milk while whisking constantly until thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Add the Cheeses: Remove from heat; mix in sharp cheddar and Gruyère until melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce gently.
- Top with Breadcrumbs: Transfer to a greased baking dish and sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly on top.
- Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg