Baked Mac & Cheese

Creamy, cheesy, golden-crusted perfection.

retest scheduled Adapted from RecipeTin Eats — being retested to the rcpbx spec, one dinner at a time. how we test

Prep: 20 min Cook: 35 min Serves: 8
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Ingredients

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Instructions

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  1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Butter a 9x13 baking dish.
  2. Cook pasta less than package directions (it'll finish in oven). Drain.
  3. Melt butter in large pot over medium heat. Whisk in flour, cook (this is the roux).
  4. Slowly whisk in milk. Cook, whisking constantly, until thickened, about .
  5. Remove from heat. Stir in mustard, cayenne, cheddar, and Gruyere until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Fold in pasta. Transfer to prepared dish.
  7. Mix panko with melted butter and parmesan. Sprinkle over top.
  8. Bake until bubbly. Broil for extra-crispy top (watch carefully).

Notes

  • SHRED YOUR OWN CHEESE. Pre-shredded has anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. This is the #1 tip.
  • All cheddar works: Skip Gruyere if needed. Use 4 cups sharp cheddar total.
  • Stovetop version: Skip baking. Just serve the cheese sauce with pasta directly.
  • Storage: Keeps 4 days refrigerated. Reheat with splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Adapted from RecipeTin Eats