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Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with Panko Breadcrumb Topping Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 754 reviews

This classic Mac and Cheese recipe features creamy sharp cheddar cheese sauce blended with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs, and baked to golden perfection. It’s a comforting and delicious dish perfect as a main course or side dish.

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

  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 thoroughly and set it aside.
  2. Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until bubbly. Whisk in the all-purpose flour continuously until the mixture is smooth and cook it 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 and becomes smooth, forming a creamy base for the cheese sauce.
  4. Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce and mix well until every piece of pasta is thoroughly coated with the cheesy sauce.
  6. Bake: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Remove from oven and let it rest briefly before serving.

Notes

  • For a sharper flavor, use extra sharp cheddar cheese or a blend of cheeses.
  • To make it gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
  • Use whole milk for creaminess, but you can substitute with 2% milk for a lighter option.
  • Ensure the cheese is shredded for quicker melting and smoother sauce.
  • Let the baked mac and cheese cool for a few minutes to set before serving.

Keywords: Mac and Cheese, Cheesy Pasta, Baked Macaroni and Cheese, Comfort Food, Classic Mac and Cheese

Find it online: https://spiceupwithsophie.com/creamy-baked-mac-and-cheese-with-panko-breadcrumb-topping-recipe/