Grand Lux Cafe Macaroni and Cheese Skillet

Cheddar Cheese Sauce

1. Heat the butter in a small saucepan over medium-high heat until it is completely melted.
2. Add the flour and whisk to incorporate. Cook until the raw flour taste has been cooked away (about 1 1/2 minutes). Do not allow it to turn brown; it should remain very light blond in color.
3. Slowly add the milk, 1/4 cup at a time, whisking to prevent lumps.
4. Add the heavy cream, continuing to whisk.
5. Allow the sauce to come to a gentle boil, and then lower the heat to a simmer, stirring occasionally to avoid burning (about 1 to 2 minutes).
6. Add the grated cheddar and stir with a wire whisk to incorporate until completely melted. 3. Season with salt, and remove from the heat.

Butter Breadcrumb Mix

1. Combine the panko breadcrumbs and melted butter in a small mixing bowl. Set aside.

Macaroni and Cheese

1. Preheat the oven to the “broil” setting. (If you do not have a broiler, set your oven to 500°F and leave your oven door slightly cracked open.)
2. Cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain.
3. Transfer the pasta to the saucepan with the cheddar cheese sauce. Using a rubber spatula, fold to incorporate.
4. Place the macaroni and cheese into a small cast-iron skillet or other oven-safe ramekin or small casserole dish.
5. Sprinkle the butter-breadcrumb mix evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
6. Broil until the cheese is melted and the breadcrumbs turn golden brown. Be careful not to burn the breadcrumbs.
7. Remove the macaroni and cheese from the oven. Serve and enjoy!