Creamy Cheddar Mac and Cheese with a Crispy Panko Topping Recipe
This classic Mac and Cheese recipe combines creamy cheddar cheese sauce with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni and a crispy panko breadcrumb topping for a comforting and delicious dish that everyone loves.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7 to 8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Make the roux: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is lightly golden and bubbly to form a roux.
- Add the milk: Slowly whisk in the whole milk, continuing to whisk to avoid lumps. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
- Incorporate the cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- Assemble and top: Pour the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the panko bread crumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy crust.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the dish uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese sauce to set slightly.
Notes
- For a sharper flavor, use aged cheddar cheese.
- To make this recipe gluten free, substitute the flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Whole milk is recommended for creaminess, but you can use 2% milk for a lighter version.
- Make sure to stir the roux constantly to prevent burning.
- Adding a pinch of paprika or mustard powder to the cheese sauce can enhance the flavor.
Keywords: mac and cheese, classic mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, cheddar cheese pasta, comfort food
