Irresistibly Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese You’ll Love

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Baked Macaroni and Cheese, featuring a velvety cheese sauce and golden panko topping.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 30

Total Time 45

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Pasta

2 cups Elbow macaroni the classic choice

For the Cheese Sauce

4 tablespoons Unsalted butter adds richness
1/4 cup All-purpose flour for thickening
2 cups Whole milk for creamy texture
2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese for bold flavor
1 cup Mozzarella cheese for meltiness

For the Topping

1 cup Panko breadcrumbs for crunch
to taste Salt & pepper to enhance flavor

Equipment

large pot
Saucepan
baking dish
Whisk

Method

Preparation

Cook the elbow macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
Melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring in the flour until smooth for 1-2 minutes.
Whisk in the whole milk gradually, cooking until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and combined.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the creamy cheese sauce, then transfer to a greased baking dish.
Mix the panko breadcrumbs with a little melted butter and sprinkle over the macaroni mixture.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

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