Ingredients and Weight: - Elbow macaroni, 1 pound (454g) - Unsalted butter, 1/2 cup (113g) - All-purpose flour, 1/4 cup (30g) - Whole milk, 3 cups (720ml) - Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, 3 cups (360g) - Panko breadcrumbs, 1 cup (110g) - Grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup (50g) - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes at 350°F (175°C)
Difficulty Level: 1 (Simple)
Preparation Method Steps: 1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. Cook macaroni according to package directions, drain, and set aside. 3. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. 4. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. 5. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. 6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 7. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine. 8. Pour macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. 9. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle over macaroni and cheese. 10. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly. 11. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Nutritional Information: (Per serving) - Calories: 450 - Fat: 20g - Carbohydrates: 45g - Protein: 20g
Dish Characteristics: - Creamy and cheesy - Golden brown crust - Comforting and satisfying
User Comments: - "This macaroni and cheese is so easy to make and it's so delicious! It's definitely a crowd-pleaser." - "I love the crispy panko topping. It adds such a nice crunch." - "This is the best macaroni and cheese I've ever had! It's so creamy and cheesy."
Special Precautions and Tips: - Use a good quality cheddar cheese for the best flavor. - Don't overcook the macaroni, or it will become mushy. - Be careful when grating the Parmesan cheese, as it can be hard and sharp. - Let the macaroni and cheese stand for a few minutes before serving, so that it can firm up slightly.