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Sensational Classic Baked Mac and Cheese in 15 Minutes

Classic Baked Mac and Cheese
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This recipe gives you a creamy, cheesy baked macaroni and cheese. It bakes to a golden finish, making a comforting dish perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  3. While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
  4. Whisk in the flour and cook for one minute, stirring constantly to make a roux.
  5. Gradually whisk in the warm milk until the mixture is smooth.
  6. Cook, stirring often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes. Do not let it boil.
  7. Remove the sauce from the heat. Stir in the salt, pepper, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper if you are using it.
  8. Add the cheddar and Gruyère cheeses to the sauce. Stir until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth.
  9. Fold the cooked, drained macaroni into the cheese sauce until everything is well combined.
  10. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish.
  11. In a small bowl, toss the panko breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of melted butter (not listed in main ingredients for simplicity, assume you have extra or adjust). Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese.
  12. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
  13. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use high-quality cheeses for the best flavor.
  • Warming the milk prevents lumps in your sauce.
  • For extra crunch, you can toast the breadcrumbs lightly before sprinkling them on top.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://afripaket.com/classic-baked-mac-and-cheese-recipe/