Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Baked Macaroni and Cheese

from dinnerin321.com
45 min
9 servings

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the cheesy goodness of baked macaroni and cheese. Whether you're preparing a cozy family dinner or hosting a potluck party, this classic dish is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups half-and-half
  • 1 cup milk
  • 4 ounces American cheese or Velveeta
  • 4 ounces shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1/2-3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2-3/4 teaspoon white pepper
  • 2 tablespoons panko bread crumbs

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 375℉.

  2. 2

    Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni minutes less than package calls for al dente pasta. Drain.

  3. 3

    Melt butter in a large skillet on medium heat. Stir in flour, and cook 1 minute.

  4. 4

    Whisk in half-and-half and milk. Once bubbles appear at the edge of the pan and the mixture starts to simmer, set aside 1/2 cup of the cheddar cheese, and stir the remaining cheeses into the mixture.

  5. 5

    Once the cheese has melted and the mixture begins to thicken, season with salt and white pepper to taste. Fold in the drained pasta.

  6. 6

    Transfer the mixture to a greased 9”x9” pan. Sprinkle the remaining cheese and panko bread crumbs on top.

  7. 7

    Bake 25-30 minutes or until the mixture is bubbling at the edge and is golden brown on top.