Creamy Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Crispy Panko Topping Recipe
This classic Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a creamy, cheesy comfort dish made with elbow macaroni, sharp cheddar cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s perfect as a hearty side or a satisfying main meal, combining a rich cheese sauce with tender pasta and a crunchy golden crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions, usually about 8 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook, whisking constantly, for about 1-2 minutes to form a smooth paste without browning.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the whole milk into the roux, continuing to whisk to avoid lumps. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated.
- Assemble and Add Topping: Transfer the cheesy macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the panko bread crumbs over the top to create a crispy crust when baked.
- Bake the Mac and Cheese: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese sauce is bubbly around the edges.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this creamy, cheesy comfort food classic!
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can mix in cooked bacon or sautéed onions before baking.
- Use sharp cheddar for a bold cheesy taste, or mix in other cheeses like Gruyère or mozzarella for different textures.
- To make ahead, prepare through the baking step and refrigerate, then bake just before serving, adding additional 5-10 minutes if baking from chilled.
- Panko breadcrumbs can be substituted with regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for the topping.
- Whole milk is recommended for creaminess, but you can substitute with 2% milk for a lighter version.
Keywords: Mac and Cheese, Cheesy Pasta, Comfort Food, Baked Macaroni
