Go Back
–+ servings

Creamy Mac and Cheese

A comforting classic dish featuring tender elbow pasta enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce, baked to perfection with a crispy panko topping.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 oz elbow pasta Your classic choice for mac and cheese
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded The star of the show
  • 1 cup milk For creaminess
  • 2 tbsp butter A must for richness
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour To help thicken the sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder For subtle flavor
  • 1 tsp onion powder Adds depth
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs For that delightful crunchy topping

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Cook the elbow pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper for about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Gradually whisk in the milk. Bring to a simmer and let it thicken, stirring occasionally.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted.
  6. Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked pasta, ensuring every piece is coated.
  7. Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture to a greased baking dish.
  8. Top with panko breadcrumbs.
  9. Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
  10. Serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4g

Notes

Feel free to swap the cheddar for a different cheese like Gruyère or Monterey Jack. For heartier options, add cooked chicken or bacon. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!