A rich and creamy baked mac and cheese recipe featuring penne pasta, a velvety cheese sauce made with butter, half n half, cream cheese, and sour cream, topped with cheddar and bread crumbs, then baked to golden perfection.
1. Cook about 2 cups of penne pasta according to package directions. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
2. To make the cheese sauce: Add a whole stick of butter to a pan on medium heat and melt it.
3. Add about 1 cup of half n half and a few pinches of cornstarch. Whisk until well incorporated.
4. Turn the heat to medium-low.
5. Add half of a block of cream cheese and 1/4 cup sour cream. Slowly mix them in until combined.
6. Season the sauce as desired (e.g., salt, white pepper, garlic powder).
7. Add the cooked penne pasta into the cheese sauce.
8. Stir in a handful of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, or as much as you'd like. (Pro tip: use some of the reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce as needed).
9. Transfer the mac and cheese into a pan.
10. Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese and bread crumbs on top (e.g., Vigo’s Italian style seasoned bread crumbs).
11. Put the pan in the oven preheated to 500°F (260°C) for about 15 minutes or until you achieve your desired golden color.
