Description
Creamy baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines gooey sharp cheddar with perfectly cooked macaroni, all topped with a crunchy breadcrumb finish. This dish not only warms your soul but also brings back fond memories of family gatherings and cozy nights. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this classic recipe is sure to be a hit at any table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish.
- Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour for about two minutes until smooth.
- Gradually add milk, whisking constantly until thickened (about five minutes).
- Stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Mix cooked pasta with cheese sauce until fully coated. Pour into the greased baking dish and top with panko breadcrumbs.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg