Description
Homemade Baked Mac & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy sharp cheddar with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, topped with a crunchy layer of golden breadcrumbs. This dish not only warms your heart but also whisks you back to nostalgic family gatherings. With simple ingredients and foolproof techniques, this recipe makes it easy for anyone to create a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for cozy nights or festive occasions.
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 mustard powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook elbow macaroni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Create the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter. Whisk in flour until smooth (about 2 minutes).
- Add Dairy: Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until thickened (5-7 minutes).
- Melt in Cheese: Reduce heat and stir in shredded cheddar until melted and smooth. Add mustard powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Gently fold cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer mac and cheese to a greased baking dish, top with panko breadcrumbs, and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg