Description
This creamy stovetop mac and cheese features a blend of sharp white cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheese cooked together with elbow pasta in a rich, cheesy sauce. Enhanced with garlic powder and ground mustard, this quick and comforting dish is topped with an optional crunchy toasted panko breadcrumb mixture for extra texture.
Ingredients
For the 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
For the Panko Topping (Optional):
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Make the roux and base mixture: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a smooth paste and remove the raw flour taste.
- Add liquids: Slowly pour in the water while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Then add the milk and whisk again until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Cook the pasta: Add uncooked elbow pasta to the pot along with garlic powder, ground mustard, salt, and black pepper. Bring mixture to a boil on high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 9-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until pasta is al dente and sauce thickens.
- Incorporate cheeses: Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in sharp white cheddar, Parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses until fully melted, creating a creamy, cheesy sauce coating the pasta.
- Prepare the panko topping (optional): In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder and paprika. Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat, then add the panko mixture and toast for 2-3 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove from heat.
- Serve: Spoon the creamy mac and cheese into bowls and sprinkle the toasted panko topping over each serving if desired. Serve warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, you can substitute part of the water with additional milk or cream.
- The panko topping adds a delicious crunch but can be omitted for a smoother mac and cheese.
- Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and flavor.
- Stir frequently during cooking to ensure pasta cooks evenly and sauce doesn’t stick or scorch.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt, depending on the saltiness of your cheese.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
