Description
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together creamy, cheesy goodness in a delightful dish that everyone loves. This recipe features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and Parmesan, topped with crunchy panko breadcrumbs for an irresistible finish. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, it’s a dish that promises warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 4 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Boil salted water in a large pot; cook elbow macaroni until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to create a roux.
- Gradually add milk while stirring continuously until thickened (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat; stir in cheddar and Parmesan until melted.
- Combine pasta with cheese sauce; mix well and pour into a baking dish.
- Top with panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg