Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Company-Worthy Mac and Cheese. Creamy, cheesy, and topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs, this dish transforms any gathering into a joyous occasion. With its rich flavor from sharp cheddar and a smooth béchamel sauce, every bite delivers nostalgic warmth reminiscent of family gatherings. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this mac and cheese is sure to impress!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt, pepper, garlic powder to taste
- Optional: smoked paprika for extra flavor
Instructions
- Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour until smooth to create a roux; cook for 2 minutes.
- Gradually add milk while whisking continuously until thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Lower heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted.
- Combine cooked pasta with cheese sauce; season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika if desired.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish; top with panko breadcrumbs.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg