Name: Easy Macaroni and Cheese
Prep time: 2 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 12 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon cultured unsalted butter (Source: 1 tablespoon cultured unsalted butter); 1 tablespoon flat-leaf parsley ((minced)) (Source: 1 tablespoon flat-leaf parsley ((minced))); 1/3 cup panko ((Japanese bread crumbs)) (Source: 1/3 cup panko ((Japanese bread crumbs))); 340 grams macaroni (Source: 340 grams macaroni); 1 cup heavy cream (Source: 1 cup heavy cream); 1/2 cup whole milk (Source: 1/2 cup whole milk); 140 grams Cheddar cheese ((shredded)) (Source: 140 grams Cheddar cheese ((shredded))); 60 grams Gruyere cheese ((shredded)) (Source: 60 grams Gruyere cheese ((shredded))); 2 teaspoons potato starch (Source: 2 teaspoons potato starch); As Needed Salt (Required by source directions; authorized salt/pepper exception.)

Get to know the ingredients

cultured unsalted butter

In the method: To make the breadcrumb topping, just melt the butter in a frying pan over medium heat.

flat-leaf parsley (minced)

In the method: Add the parsley and fry until the sizzling has subsided.

panko (Japanese bread crumbs)

In the method: To make the breadcrumb topping, just melt the butter in a frying pan over medium heat.

Let’s make it

Choose your servings, then check things off as you go.

Servings

Original recipe: Serves 4. Original quantities shown.

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How to make it

0 of 4 steps complete

To make the breadcrumb topping, just melt the butter in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the parsley and fry until the sizzling has subsided. Add the panko and fry, stirring constantly so it browns evenly. It's done when it's about the color of the crust of sandwich bread. Transfer the toasted bread crumbs to a plate and wipe out the frying pan with paper towels so you can make the sauce in it.
Boil the macaroni according to the package directions in well salted water. In a small bowl, add the two cheeses along with the starch and toss with you fingers to evenly distribute.
When there's about 3 minutes left on the clock for the pasta, add the cream and milk to the frying pan, and place over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, then sprinkle in the cheese a small handful at a time, using a silicone spatula to stir the mixture until each addition of cheese completely melts. Continue adding the cheese in small batches and melting until its all incorporated. Salt to taste.
When the macaroni is done, drain it, then add it to the cheese sauce. Stir to coat with the sauce. Plate the mac and cheese and sprinkle on the toasted bread crumbs.

Make room for Easy Macaroni and Cheese

Review ingredients in your pantry before anything is added. Meal plans use your household size; grocery-only additions use the servings selected above.

The last little job

Finish as directed

Plate the mac and cheese and sprinkle on the toasted bread crumbs.

A little more help as you go

Stir as directed

Stay with the pan for the frequent stirring called for in the method.

Keep the simmering stage

Follow the simmering heat, timing and finish checks that are given.

Prepare the finishing addition

Have the final topping or garnish ready for its specified step.

A few questions you might have

What should I prepare first?

Start with this step: To make the breadcrumb topping, just melt the butter in a frying pan over medium heat.

Which preparation step should I plan for?

Use the package directions where the method calls for them.

What check should I look for as it cooks?

Bring to a simmer, then sprinkle in the cheese a small handful at a time, using a silicone spatula to stir the mixture until each addition of cheese completely melts.

Is there another preparation step to plan for?