Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Bread Crumb Topping
Creamy, cheesy, and baked to golden perfection, this Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Bread Crumb Topping is the ultimate comfort food classic. Tender macaroni is coated in a rich, velvety cheese sauce, then topped with a crispy, buttery breadcrumb layer for the perfect crunch.
Ingredients
- For the Mac and Cheese:
- 8 oz (225 g) elbow macaroni (or other short pasta)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional, for flavor depth)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- For the Bread Crumb Topping:
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs (or regular bread crumbs)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional, for color)
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta : Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.Add macaroni and cook until just al dente (about 1 minute less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce : In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.Add flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to make a roux.Slowly pour in warm milk while whisking to avoid lumps.Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 4–5 minutes until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan until smooth.
- Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce : Add drained pasta to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
- Step 4: Prepare the Bread Crumb Topping : In a small bowl, mix bread crumbs with melted butter, Parmesan, and paprika.
- Step 5: Assemble and Bake : Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer mac and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.Sprinkle bread crumb topping evenly over the top. Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the topping is golden and crisp.