Stovetop White Cheddar Mac and Cheese with Panko Breadcrumbs Recipe
This creamy stovetop mac and cheese with white cheddar is a quick and comforting meal that comes together in just 20 minutes. Featuring a rich cheese sauce made from sharp white cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella, and optionally topped with a crunchy garlic-paprika panko breadcrumb topping, this dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying side.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
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, shredded
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
Panko Topping (Optional)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Make Roux: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to create a smooth roux.
- Add Liquids: Pour in the water and whisk until the mixture is smooth. Add the milk and whisk to combine thoroughly.
- Add Pasta and Seasonings: Stir in the uncooked elbow pasta, garlic powder, ground mustard, salt, and black pepper.
- Cook Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 9 to 10 minutes until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Incorporate Cheeses: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the sharp white cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Prepare Panko Topping (Optional): In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, 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 lightly browned. Remove from heat.
- Serve: Spoon the mac and cheese into bowls and sprinkle with the toasted panko topping if desired. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- For an extra creamy texture, use whole milk or a combination of milk and cream.
- Stir frequently while cooking to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- The panko topping adds a nice crunch but can be omitted for a smoother dish.
- Feel free to substitute cheeses or add other seasonings like smoked paprika or cayenne for a spicier kick.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk.