Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Monster Mac and Cheese, featuring creamy, gooey cheese enveloping perfectly cooked pasta and topped with crispy breadcrumbs. This satisfying dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, offering a rich flavor profile that’s customizable to your taste. Whether it’s a rainy night or a potluck, this cheesy delight will spark conversations and create unforgettable memories.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to form a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes until golden.
- Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until slightly thickened (around 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar until melted and creamy.
- Combine the pasta with the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
- Pour into a baking dish, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs on top, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 60mg