Description
A creamy, cheesy stovetop mac and cheese recipe made with sharp white cheddar and a crispy garlic paprika panko topping. This comforting dish combines tender elbow pasta cooked directly in a rich cheese sauce for an easy, indulgent meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
Mac and Cheese
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups water
- 4 cups milk
- 1 pound elbow pasta, uncooked
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 cups sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Panko Topping
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Make the roux and sauce base: In a large pot over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a smooth roux. Gradually whisk in the water until smooth, then add the milk and whisk to combine thoroughly, creating the base for the sauce.
- Add pasta and seasonings, cook: Stir in the uncooked elbow pasta, garlic powder, ground mustard, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low to simmer. Cook for 9 to 10 minutes until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Incorporate cheeses: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses until they are fully melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Prepare toasted panko topping: In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, add the panko mixture, and toast for 2 to 3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat.
- Serve: Spoon the creamy mac and cheese into bowls and generously top with the toasted panko breadcrumb mixture for a delightful crunch. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- Cooking pasta directly in the sauce saves time and reduces cleanup, but stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk or a mix of milk and cream.
- Feel free to swap the white cheddar with sharp yellow cheddar for a slightly different taste and color.
- To make this dish vegetarian, ensure the cheese is made without animal rennet.
- The toasted panko topping adds texture but can be omitted for a smoother mac and cheese.
