Baked Mac and Cheese

Method

1. 1

   Step 1

   Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C / Gas 5), with a rack in the middle. Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch (23 x 33 cm) baking dish with a little of the measured butter.

2. 2

   Step 2

   Bring 4 quarts (3.8 liters) water to a boil in a large pot over high heat and add the 1 tbsp salt. Add the macaroni and cook for 2 minutes less than the package instructions, stirring occasionally; it should be flexible but still noticeably firm in the center. Drain well without rinsing.

3. 3

   Step 3

   While the pasta cooks, melt 1 tbsp of the butter in a small saucepan over low heat for 1–2 minutes. Pour it over the panko in a small bowl and stir until the crumbs are evenly coated; set aside.

4. 4

   Step 4

   Melt the remaining butter in a large, heavy-based saucepan over medium-low heat. Whisk in the flour and mustard powder, then cook for 1–2 minutes, whisking constantly, until bubbling and pale golden rather than browned.

5. 5

   Step 5

   Gradually whisk in the milk, adding a small splash at first and whisking smooth before adding more. Increase the heat to medium and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring frequently and scraping the base, until the sauce gently bubbles and coats the back of a spoon. Reduce the heat if it begins to boil vigorously.

6. 6

   Step 6

   Remove the saucepan from the heat and let stand for 1 minute, then stir in the Cheddar a handful at a time until melted and smooth. Stir in the ½ tsp salt and black pepper; do not return the sauce to a boil, which can make the cheese grainy.

7. 7

   Step 7

   Fold the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated, then immediately transfer to the prepared baking dish. Spread into an even layer and scatter the buttered panko evenly over the surface.

8. 8

   Step 8

   Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the sauce bubbles around the edges and the breadcrumb topping is golden. The center should be piping hot, reaching at least 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer. Let stand for 5 minutes before dividing into 6 portions and serving.