Ultimate Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. In this recipe, tender macaroni is coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce with a golden crumb topping.

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 45 mins
• Total Time: 60 mins
• Calories: 413 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 4 cups milk
• 1 (16 ounce) package elbow macaroni
• 6 tablespoons flour
• 2 tablespoons McCormick® Mustard, Ground
• 1 teaspoon McCormick® Garlic Powder
• 6 cups shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon McCormick® Paprika
• 1.5 cups panko bread crumbs
• 1.5 teaspoons McCormick® Black Pepper, Coarse Grind

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (204 degrees C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

Step 2

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Cook elbow macaroni in the boiling water, stirring occasionally, until tender yet firm to the bite, about 8 minutes. Rinse under cold water. Drain well.

Step 3

Melt butter in the same pot on medium heat; sprinkle with flour, ground mustard, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt. Cook and stir until well blended, about 2 minutes. Gradually stir in milk; cook, stirring constantly, until sauce begins to thicken, about 3 minutes.

Step 4

Stir in cheese until melted and smooth. Off heat, gently stir in macaroni until coated. Transfer to the prepared baking dish. Combine panko and paprika; evenly sprinkle over top.

Step 5

Bake in the preheated oven until bubbly and golden brown on top, 25 to 30 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.