Classic Baked Mac and Cheese with Panko Breadcrumb Topping Recipe

Introduction

Mac and Cheese is a timeless comfort food that combines creamy cheese sauce with tender pasta, topped with a crunchy golden crust. This classic recipe is easy to make and perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings.

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

1. 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 and set aside.
2. 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 form a roux.
3. Step 3: Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly. Continue to whisk until the mixture thickens slightly.
4. Step 4: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and smooth.
5. Step 5: Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring until the pasta is well coated.
6. Step 6: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle panko bread crumbs evenly on top, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of cream cheese into the sauce.
• Try mixing different types of cheese like Gruyere, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor.
• Add cooked bacon or caramelized onions for more savory depth.
• Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta as a substitute to suit dietary needs.

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

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time when ready to cook.

What can I use instead of panko bread crumbs?

If you don’t have panko, regular bread crumbs or crushed crackers work well for the topping, though they may create a less crispy crust.

Classic Baked Mac and Cheese with Panko Breadcrumb Topping Recipe

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4.9 from 116 reviews

Classic homemade Mac and Cheese featuring creamy sharp cheddar cheese sauce enveloping perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, finished with a crispy panko breadcrumb topping baked to golden perfection.

• Author: Nora
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

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

1. Cook the Pasta: 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 thoroughly and set aside to prepare the cheese sauce.
2. Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it becomes bubbly. Whisk in the all-purpose flour until the mixture is smooth and cook for approximately 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
3. Add Milk: Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue whisking and cook the mixture until it thickens slightly to form a creamy béchamel sauce.
4. Add Cheese: Remove the saucepan from heat and immediately stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until it is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir well to ensure every piece of pasta is coated evenly with the rich cheese sauce.
6. Bake: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the panko bread crumbs over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.

Notes

• To add extra flavor, mix in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a pinch of paprika to the cheese sauce.
• For a richer taste, substitute half of the cheddar cheese with Gruyère or mozzarella.
• If you prefer a creamier texture without baking, skip the breadcrumb topping and serve immediately after combining pasta and sauce.
• This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add extra baking time if baked from cold.

Keywords: mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, classic comfort food, cheddar cheese pasta, homemade mac and cheese, pasta casserole