Mac and Cheese
If you’re craving a dish that delivers comfort and nostalgia, look no further than this creamy Mac and Cheese recipe. This classic favorite is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, offering a rich cheese sauce enveloping perfectly cooked pasta. With a crunchy panko topping that adds texture, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Easy to whip up in just 40 minutes, you can customize it by adding vegetables, swapping in different cheeses, or incorporating proteins like chicken for a heartier meal. Whether you serve it as a main course or as a side, this Mac and Cheese promises satisfaction with every cheesy bite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
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 boiling salted water until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux; cook for about one minute.
- Gradually add the whole milk while whisking continuously until the sauce thickens slightly (a few minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, sprinkle panko bread crumbs on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 685mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Find it online: https://www.sweetfamilytable.com/mac-and-cheese/