Save A creamy, cheesy classic with a golden, crunchy topping this beloved macaroni and cheese recipe delivers nostalgia and delicious comfort in every bite.
I have fond memories of baking this comforting dish for my family on chilly weekends it always brings smiles and warmth to the table.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) elbow macaroni
- Cheese Sauce: 60 g (4 tbsp) unsalted butter, 40 g (1/3 cup) all-purpose flour, 720 ml (3 cups) whole milk warmed, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, 200 g (2 cups) sharp cheddar cheese grated, 100 g (1 cup) Gruyère or mozzarella cheese grated
- Topping: 55 g (1 cup) panko breadcrumbs, 30 g (2 tbsp) unsalted butter melted, 40 g (1/3 cup) grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F) Butter a 2-liter (2-quart) baking dish.
- Step 2:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil Cook macaroni until just al dente (about 1 minute less than package instructions) Drain and set aside.
- Step 3:
- In a large saucepan melt butter over medium heat Whisk in flour and cook for 1 2 minutes until bubbling but not browned.
- Step 4:
- Gradually whisk in warm milk stirring constantly until smooth Cook stirring until thickened (5 7 minutes).
- Step 5:
- Stir in Dijon mustard garlic powder onion powder salt and pepper.
- Step 6:
- Remove from heat and add cheddar and Gruyère cheeses Stir until melted and smooth.
- Step 7:
- Add drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well Pour into the prepared baking dish.
- Step 8:
- For the topping In a bowl mix panko with melted butter and Parmesan Sprinkle evenly over macaroni.
- Step 9:
- Bake for 25 30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Step 10:
- Let rest for 5 10 minutes before serving.
Save My family gathers eagerly around the table whenever this mac and cheese is served it’s truly a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Notes
Try mixing in cooked bacon caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms for variety Pairs well with a crisp green salad and a dry white wine.
Required Tools
Large pot Saucepan Whisk Baking dish Mixing bowls Grater
Nutritional Information
540 calories per serving Total fat 28 g Carbohydrates 50 g Protein 23 g
Save This classic baked mac and cheese is simple to make and delivers rich comforting flavors perfect for any occasion.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is ideal for holding the creamy cheese sauce, cooking to tender perfection without becoming mushy.
- → Can I use different cheeses?
Yes, swapping Gruyère for mozzarella or adding sharp cheddar enhances the creamy texture and flavor complexity.
- → How do I achieve a crispy topping?
Combining panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese before baking results in a golden, crunchy crust.
- → What is the best way to thicken the cheese sauce?
Whisking flour into melted butter and gradually adding warm milk creates a smooth roux base that thickens nicely when cooked.
- → Can I add extra flavors to this dish?
Try incorporating spices like smoked paprika or cayenne, or mix in bacon, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms for added depth.