A classic comfort food featuring creamy cheese, tender pasta, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping.
Author:mohamedcherifsfaitrigmail-com
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Baking
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 cups whole milk
4 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp nutmeg
Instructions
Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook until it’s al dente—firm to the bite. Drain and set aside.
Make the cheese sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it’s bubbling. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to ensure a smooth mixture. Cook until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
Add the cheese: Remove the sauce from the heat and stir in your shredded cheese until it’s melted and incredibly creamy. Introduce a dash of salt, pepper, and nutmeg—let that warmth blend in beautifully!
Combine: Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce, ensuring every noodle is generously coated in that luscious mixture.
Prepare for baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish, smoothing it out evenly.
Breadcrumb topping: In a small bowl, combine breadcrumbs with a splash of melted butter. Scatter this mixture generously over the mac and cheese for an irresistible crunch.
Bake: Place your dish in the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
Serve: Allow your mac and cheese to rest for a few minutes before digging in. Serve it warm and enjoy!
Notes
For variations, consider adding cooked bacon, fresh spinach, or different types of cheese.
Nutrition
Serving Size:1 serving
Calories:450
Sugar:5g
Sodium:500mg
Fat:25g
Saturated Fat:15g
Unsaturated Fat:5g
Trans Fat:0g
Carbohydrates:45g
Fiber:2g
Protein:20g
Cholesterol:70mg
Keywords: mac and cheese, comfort food, pasta, cheese