Baked Mac and Cheese is a timeless dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. This classic American delight has warmed hearts and filled bellies for generations, making it a staple at family gatherings, potlucks, and cozy weeknight dinners. What sets this recipe apart is its rich and gooey cheese sauce enveloping perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer that adds texture to every bite. Whether you’re enjoying a delightful bowl alone or sharing it with loved ones, this creamy baked pasta dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
Scale:
1 pound elbow macaroni, uncooked
1 teaspoon salt (for pasta water)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned. Gradually whisk in the milk and stir until the mixture thickens.
Incorporate Cheese: Reduce heat to low and stir in the sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheese until fully melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Stir the cooked elbow macaroni into the cheese sauce, mixing well.
Prepare the Topping: In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese.
Assemble the Dish: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top.
Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Cool and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving.
