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A scoop of Baked Macaroni and Cheese on a wooden spoon.
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Baked Macaroni and Cheese

A recipe for Baked Macaroni and Cheese! This creamy Mac and Cheese is packed with three different types of cheese and topped with golden Panko breadcrumbs.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword cheddar, cheese, mac and cheese, macaroni, macaroni and cheese, noodle, pasta
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 8 -10 Servings

Ingredients

Topping:

  • 2 tablespoons (30 grams) unsalted butter
  • 1 cup (60 grams) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Macaroni and Cheese:

  • 1 pound (450 grams) dried medium shape pasta elbows, rotini, fusilli, shells
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic peeled and minced
  • 1/2 cup (65 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 cups (600 milliliters) chicken stock
  • 3 1/2 cups (830 milliliters) milk
  • 16 ounces (450 grams) sharp Cheddar cheese shredded
  • 6 ounces (170 grams) Gruyere cheese shredded
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) freshly grated Parmesan
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

To make the Panko topping:

  • In a medium skillet, melt the 2 tablespoons (30 grams) butter for the topping over medium heat.
  • Once melted, add the panko and constantly stir until golden.
  • Stir in the 1/4 teaspoon salt and remove from heat. Set aside.

To prepare the Baked Macaroni and Cheese:

  • Preheat oven to 375˚ F (190˚C) and lightly grease a 9x13 inch (23x33 centimeter) dish with butter.
  • Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a boil.
  • Add the pasta and cook until it begins to soften, but not yet tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • While the pasta is cooking, melt the 1/2 cup (113 grams) butter in another pot over medium heat.
  • Once melted, add the garlic and cook until just fragrant, 30 seconds to 1 minute.
  • Stir in the flour and cook until lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.
  • Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, stirring often until the mixture is thickened.
  • Remove the pot from heat and slowly whisk in the Cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
  • Season the sauce with the salt, paprika, and pepper to taste.
  • Add the cooked pasta and gently toss to coat thoroughly.
  • Pour the cheese coated pasta into the prepared baking dish. Top with panko mixture and bake in the preheated oven until the panko is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly, 30-45 minutes.
  • Allow the Baked Macaroni and Cheese to rest at room temperature for at least 10 minutes before serving.