Description
This Crunchy Baked Mac and Cheese recipe delivers the ultimate comfort food with creamy cheddar sauce and a buttery panko topping. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or weeknight meals. Enjoy golden, cheesy pasta baked to perfection.
Ingredients
8 ounces elbow macaroni
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
1. Boil elbow macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 2 minutes.
3. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer until thickened.
4. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
5. Combine cooked pasta with cheese sauce, then pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. In a bowl, mix panko, Parmesan, and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the pasta.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for the best creamy texture.
To reheat, add a splash of milk and bake covered at 350°F.
Make ahead by assembling without the topping, refrigerate, and bake with topping when ready.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 16g
- Cholesterol: 60mg