Mac and Cheese is the epitome of comfort food. Its creamy, cheesy goodness has been a family favorite for generations. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a potluck with friends, this dish never disappoints. Today, I’ll share a classic baked Mac and Cheese recipe that’s both indulgent and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 1 pound elbow macaroni or your preferred shape.
- Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Preparation Steps
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the macaroni and cook until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, sprinkle in the flour, whisking continuously to form a smooth paste. This mixture, known as a roux, will thicken your sauce.
- Gradually pour in the milk, continuing to whisk to ensure a lump-free sauce. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer; you’ll notice it starting to thicken.
- Reduce the heat to low, then add the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses. Stir until the cheeses have fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to ensure every piece is well-coated.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese. This will create a crispy, flavorful topping.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top, ensuring an even layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
- Serve: Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to set slightly, making for easier serving.
Servings and Preparation Time
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 8 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or gathering.
- Preparation Time: From start to finish, expect about 45 minutes:
- 15 minutes for preparation
- 30 minutes for baking
Related Post: American Goulash: A Hearty Comfort Food Favorite
Conclusion
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy plate of Mac and Cheese. This classic recipe combines a creamy sauce with a crispy topping, creating a delightful contrast in textures. It’s a dish that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this Mac and Cheese is bound to become a household favorite.