Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Ultimate Classic Cheesy Macaroni Bake, featuring a rich cheese sauce and a delightful crispy topping. Perfect for any occasion, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 4 cups cheese blend (sharp cheddar, Gruyère, Fontina, or low-moisture mozzarella)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
- a tiny pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
- 1½ cups Panko breadcrumbs
- a dash of hot sauce (like Tabasco)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package directions, aiming for about 1-2 minutes less than the recommended time. Drain the macaroni thoroughly and set aside.
- In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in 4 cups of whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes until thickened.
- Remove the pot from heat and add your grated cheese blend, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, dry mustard powder, and nutmeg.
- Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until well combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and toss with 1½ cups of Panko breadcrumbs until evenly coated. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the macaroni and cheese.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Let the macaroni bake rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 500
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: For the best flavor, use a blend of cheeses and always grate your own from the block. Adjust seasonings to taste and consider adding sautéed onions or vegetables for extra flavor.