Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with Panko Topping Recipe

Introduction

Mac and cheese is a timeless comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy sauce with tender pasta. This baked version offers a crispy, golden topping for added texture and flavor. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying side dish.

Ingredients

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cups whole milk
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs

Instructions

1. Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Step 2: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it becomes bubbly. Whisk in the flour until smooth and cook the mixture for about 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Step 3: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Step 4: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it fully melts and the sauce is smooth.
5. Step 5: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well to coat all the pasta evenly.
6. Step 6: Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the panko bread crumbs evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or mustard powder to the cheese sauce.
• Use a blend of cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for a richer taste and texture.
• Mix in cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for added variety.
• To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any short pasta like shells, rotini, or penne works well. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

How can I make this recipe creamier?

Using whole milk and plenty of cheese helps, but you can also add a little cream or cream cheese for an extra creamy texture.

Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with Panko Topping Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 112 reviews

• Author: Lily
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Classic baked macaroni and cheese recipe featuring elbow macaroni mixed with a rich, creamy sharp cheddar cheese sauce, topped with crispy panko bread crumbs for a perfect golden crust. This comforting dish is ideal for a family dinner or potluck.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Make the Roux: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until bubbly. Whisk in the all-purpose flour until the mixture is smooth and cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
3. Add Milk: Gradually pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to cook and whisk until the mixture thickens slightly, forming a creamy base for the cheese sauce.
4. Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat, then stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth and fully melted.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir thoroughly until all pasta pieces are well coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the panko bread crumbs on top. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.

Notes

• Use sharp cheddar cheese for more pronounced cheese flavor.
• For added richness, substitute half of the whole milk with heavy cream.
• Feel free to add a pinch of paprika or mustard powder to the cheese sauce for extra depth.
• To make the topping extra crispy, you can toss panko bread crumbs with a little melted butter before sprinkling.
• This recipe can be prepared a day ahead; just bake before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: mac and cheese, baked macaroni and cheese, cheesy pasta, comfort food, cheddar cheese recipe