Description

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy mac and cheese recipe. Tender elbow macaroni is enveloped in a rich, velvety cheese sauce that’s sure to delight your taste buds. Perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings, this dish is customizable with your favorite cheeses and toppings. Dive into this cheesy goodness for a satisfying meal that warms the heart!

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 cups whole milk
4 tbsp unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)

Instructions

Cook macaroni in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth and cook for about two minutes until golden.
Gradually add milk while whisking continuously until thickened (about five minutes).
Reduce heat to low; stir in shredded cheddar until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Mix drained macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with panko breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes until golden brown.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 41g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 55mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, mix different cheeses like Gouda or Gruyère. - Incorporate vegetables such as broccoli or spinach for a nutritious twist. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; add milk when reheating to restore creaminess.