Name: Ultimate Mac and Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 2 cups whole milk; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 cup panko bread crumbs

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Introduction

The ultimate mac and cheese recipe delivers creamy, cheesy comfort in just 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this classic dish combines tender pasta with a rich cheese sauce and a crispy breadcrumb topping.

A close-up view of a creamy macaroni and cheese dish in a white ceramic bowl, showing a thick melted cheese layer on top with golden-brown spots from baking. The macaroni underneath is coated in smooth, rich cheese sauce, and strands of stretchy melted cheese are being lifted from the bowl, emphasizing the gooey texture. The pasta pieces are plump and well-cooked, sitting in a slightly bubbly, shiny cheese mix. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
2 cups whole milk
4 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup panko bread crumbs

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly. Whisk in the flour until smooth and cook for about 1 minute to create a roux.
Step 3: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens slightly.
Step 4: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
Step 5: Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated.
Step 6: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the panko bread crumbs evenly over the top.
Step 7: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

Tips & Variations

For extra cheesy flavor, try mixing in a blend of cheddar and Gruyère cheese.
Toast the panko bread crumbs lightly in butter before topping for extra crunch.
Add cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for a hearty variation.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary preferences.

Storage

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.

How to Serve

A close-up of baked mac and cheese in a white round dish with a bubbling golden crust on top, showing the top layer of melted cheese that is browned in spots. When lifted, gooey melted cheese stretches in thick strands from the dish, revealing creamy elbow macaroni beneath with a smooth texture. The creamy cheese layer covers the tubed pasta fully, giving it a rich and smooth look. The background has a soft dark blur with the dish sitting on a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this mac and cheese without baking it?

Yes, you can skip the baking step and enjoy a creamy stovetop mac and cheese. Just mix the pasta and cheese sauce, then serve immediately. The breadcrumb topping adds texture, so you might miss that without baking.

What can I use instead of panko bread crumbs?

If you don’t have panko, regular bread crumbs work as a substitute. You can also use crushed crackers or oats for a different crunchy topping.