Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe
Make Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe in just 1h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Pasta & Sauce Base
Cheeses
Topping
Method
Pasta & Sauce Base
Preheat and boil pasta
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring 6 cups of water to a rolling boil in a large pot. Add 1 tablespoon salt and the 12 ounces of elbow macaroni. Cook for 1 minute less than package instructions for al dente (usually 7–8 minutes). Drain well and set aside.
Make the roux
In the same pot over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. Once melted and foamy, add 1.5 tablespoons all-purpose flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes until the mixture smells slightly nutty and the raw flour taste is gone (do not allow to brown).
Add milk and seasonings
Gradually pour in 3 cups whole milk while whisking to prevent lumps. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 6–8 minutes. Stir in 1 teaspoon dry mustard, 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional), and 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire (optional). Taste and adjust salt if needed (the cheeses and pasta already contain salt).
Incorporate cheeses
Reduce heat to low. Remove the pot from heat and add 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar and 1 cup shredded Gruyère (or Swiss) a handful at a time, stirring until fully melted and smooth. Stir in 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan. Ensure the sauce is silky — if it seems too thick, add up to 2 tablespoons milk to loosen.
Combine pasta and cheese sauce
Fold the drained pasta into the cheese sauce until evenly coated. Transfer the mac & cheese mixture into a lightly buttered 9x13-inch baking dish (or equivalent). Spread into an even layer.
Topping
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons melted butter, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional), and 2 tablespoons extra grated Parmesan. Mix until the crumbs are evenly moistened.
Top and bake
Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the top of the mac & cheese in the baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the casserole bubbles around the edges.
Rest and serve
Remove from oven and let rest for 5–10 minutes to set. Serve warm, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired.