Get ready to experience the most mouthwatering, creamy, and absolutely addictive macaroni and cheese recipe that will make your taste buds dance with joy! This isn't just any mac and cheese – this is a restaurant-quality dish that brings the beloved Panera Bread classic right into your kitchen. Imagine a velvety smooth cheese sauce coating perfectly cooked pasta, creating a dish so delicious that it'll have everyone at the table begging for seconds. Whether you're a comfort food enthusiast or just looking to impress your family and friends, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort meal!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain pasta in a colander and set aside.
- In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Once butter is completely melted and starts to foam, add all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to create a smooth roux. This helps prevent lumps in the sauce.
- Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly to incorporate the roux. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and begins to simmer, about 4-5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and add shredded sharp cheddar cheese and grated parmesan cheese. Stir until cheese is completely melted and sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to ensure all pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
- Optional: For a golden top, transfer mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle additional cheese on top, and broil for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
- Let the macaroni and cheese rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips
- Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest, most melty sauce. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make your sauce grainy.
- The key to a perfect roux is constant whisking. Take your time when combining butter and flour to create a smooth base for your cheese sauce.
- Add milk gradually and keep whisking to prevent lumps and ensure a silky-smooth texture.
- For extra richness, you can substitute some of the milk with heavy cream or half-and-half.
- Don't overcook the pasta – aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the hot cheese sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, thin it out with a little extra milk. If it's too thin, continue cooking to reduce and thicken.
- For a crispy top, don't skip the optional broiling step – it adds a delightful golden-brown crust that takes this mac and cheese to the next level!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 80mg
