Description
Creamy baked macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to your table. This rich, velvety dish features a perfect blend of sharp cheddar and mozzarella, creating a delightful cheesy goodness with a crispy panko topping. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy family dinner or sharing it at a potluck, this recipe guarantees smiles all around. Get ready to indulge in a bowl of happiness that’s as satisfying as a warm hug!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain well.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the flour until smooth (about 1-2 minutes).
- Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until thickened (about 5-7 minutes). Stir in cheddar and mozzarella until melted.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, then transfer to a greased baking dish.
- Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top of the macaroni mixture.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 70mg