A Simple Baked Macaroni And Cheese Recipe

Ingredients for A Simple Baked Macaroni And Cheese

• Elbow Macaroni
• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• Whole Milk
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese
• Fresh Parmesan Cheese
• Panko Breadcrumbs
• Salt And Pepper

How to Make A Simple Baked Macaroni And Cheese

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
3. While pasta cooks, prepare the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over low heat.
4. Whisk in flour until smooth. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is light golden brown (roux).
5. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Reduce heat to low and stir in 2 cups of cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.
9. Pour macaroni and cheese into a greased 2-quart baking dish.
10. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup cheddar cheese and bread crumbs.
11. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.