Description
This Panko Crusted Pancetta Mac ‘n Cheese is a comforting, creamy classic elevated with crispy, savory pancetta and a crunchy panko topping. Combining rich cheddar cheese with a luscious sauce made from butter, cream, and dry mustard, this dish is baked to golden perfection, making it an irresistible choice for a hearty family meal or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 lb Pasta, cooked
Sauce
- 4 Tbsp Unsalted Butter
- 4 Tbsp All-Purpose Flour
- 1 cup Milk (2% organic)
- 2 cups Heavy Cream
- 1 tsp Dry Mustard
- 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper (Simply Organic Black Pepper, Medium Grind)
- 2 cups Shredded White Cheddar Cheese
Topping
- 4 Tbsp Panko Breadcrumbs
- Spray Butter (as needed)
Pancetta
- 1 package Pancetta, chopped (or chopped bacon)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C) to prepare for baking the mac and cheese.
- Make Roux: In a large pot over medium-high heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Whisk in 4 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and cook the mixture for about 1 minute to form a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Add Dairy and Seasonings: Reduce heat to medium and slowly whisk in 1 cup of milk and 2 cups of heavy cream. Add 1 teaspoon of dry mustard and 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture begins to bubble and thicken.
- Melt Cheese: Lower heat to low and stir in 2 cups of shredded white cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add 1 pound of cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring well to ensure the pasta is fully coated. Remove the pot from heat.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to an oven-safe skillet and flatten slightly. Evenly sprinkle 4 tablespoons of panko breadcrumbs on top, then spray with butter to help achieve a crispy topping.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 10 minutes at 350 degrees F (180 degrees C). If the topping isn’t golden brown within that time, you may increase the temperature up to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C), but do not exceed this to avoid burning.
- Cook Pancetta: While the mac and cheese bakes, cook the chopped pancetta in a pan over medium heat without adding oil. The pancetta will release its own fat and become golden and crispy.
- Serve: After baking, remove the mac and cheese from the oven and sprinkle the cooked pancetta evenly over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute bacon for pancetta if desired.
- Spray butter on the panko topping helps create a golden crispy crust.
- Use a sturdy oven-safe skillet or baking dish for best results.
- To make ahead, prepare through step 6, then refrigerate and bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to baking time.
- Adjust cheese type or amount based on taste preferences for creaminess and sharpness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mac and cheese, panko crusted, pancetta, creamy mac and cheese, baked pasta, comfort food
