Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Panko Topping Recipe

Introduction

Mac and Cheese is a timeless comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and perfectly baked to golden perfection. This classic dish combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich cheddar cheese sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping, making it a favorite for all ages.

Ingredients

• 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

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly. Whisk in the flour until smooth and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Step 3: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Step 4: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
5. Step 5: Add the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and mix until the pasta is well coated.
6. Step 6: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the panko bread crumbs evenly on top, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of sharp and mild cheddar for a balanced flavor.
• Add cooked bacon or sautéed onions for extra depth.
• Swap panko for regular bread crumbs for a softer topping.
• For a creamier texture, stir in a little cream cheese or sour cream with the cheddar.
• Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or mustard powder to the sauce for a subtle kick.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until heated through, or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, while elbow macaroni is traditional, you can substitute with shells, cavatappi, or any small pasta shape that holds sauce well.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?

Make sure to remove the sauce from heat before adding the cheese, stirring gently until melted. Avoid overheating the cheese as high heat can cause it to separate.

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Panko Topping Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 140 reviews

• Author: Hugo
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This classic Mac and Cheese recipe features creamy sharp cheddar cheese sauce combined with tender elbow macaroni, topped with crispy panko breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection. Perfectly comforting and cheesy, it’s an ideal side dish or main meal for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 8 oz elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

Topping

• 1 cup panko bread crumbs

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, approximately 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Roux: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it is bubbly. Whisk in the all-purpose flour until smooth, cooking the mixture for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Add Milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly to form a creamy base for the cheese sauce.
4. Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated, creating a smooth cheese sauce.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is evenly coated.
6. Bake: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the panko bread crumbs on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.

Notes

• For a richer flavor, use sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese.
• You can substitute whole milk with 2% milk for a lighter version, though the sauce may be less creamy.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, cook the roux a little longer before adding the milk.
• Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crunchier topping than regular breadcrumbs.
• Allow the baked mac and cheese to rest for a few minutes before serving to thicken and set.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, cheesy pasta, comfort food, cheddar mac and cheese