Description
Homemade Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy cheese sauce with al dente macaroni, all topped with a crunchy golden-brown breadcrumb crust. This dish evokes nostalgia and warmth, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly spray a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour until smooth. Gradually add the milk, whisking until thickened (about 5 minutes). Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce until well-coated. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
- Top with panko breadcrumbs and bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg