This basic mac & cheese recipe comes together super quickly on the stovetop, making it a great candidate for any night of the week. It's also a fantastic canvas for all kinds of riffs, add-ins, and toppings. <br /> <br />For a hearty, zesty, main-dish version, try mixing in 2 tbsp <a href="http://f52.co/2ouISp2">Hidden Valley Ranch Seasoning</a> when you stir in the cheese in step 4. Then, add chopped greens (such as baby kale) and cubed pancetta (just fry and drain it first!) after you've added the pasta. <br /> <br />If you like a baked mac & cheese with a crust, preheat the oven to 400°F and butter a shallow 3-quart baking dish. Melt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat, or place it in a medium-size microwave-safe dish and heat it in a microwave oven until melted. Add 2 cups panko and 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan and stir until well combined. Transfer the finished mac and cheese from the pot to the baking dish and sprinkle the panko topping evenly over the pasta. Bake until golden and bubbling, 30 to 40 minutes. <br /> <br /> <br />

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