Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup toasted breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: cooked bacon or vegetables (like broccoli)
Instructions
- 1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot, add macaroni, and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- 2. Create the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until bubbly. Whisk in flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes until golden, stirring constantly.
- 3. Add Milk & Cheeses: Gradually whisk in milk until smooth; once thickened (about 5 minutes), remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted.
- 4. Combine Pasta & Sauce: In a large bowl, mix cooked macaroni with cheese sauce until well-coated.
- 5. Add Breadcrumbs & Bake: Pour into a greased baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown.
- 6. Serve & Enjoy: Let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 55mg