Description
All-American Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy cheese sauce with perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. Topped with a crispy golden breadcrumb layer, this dish delivers nostalgia in every bite. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a family gathering, this mac and cheese is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins for an extra twist!
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, grated
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux and cook until golden.
- Gradually add milk while stirring until thickened. Reduce heat and mix in cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine the macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish. Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg