Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumb Topping
Indulge in the ultimate comfort classic with this Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumb Topping Creamy, cheesy pasta is baked to perfection and topped with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb layer that adds the perfect contrast in every bite.
Ingredients
- For the Mac and Cheese:
- 12 oz elbow macaroni (about 3 cups dry)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (or substitute mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Swiss)
- For the Crispy Breadcrumb Topping:
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the Pasta : Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil macaroni in salted water until just al dente (1–2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce : In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.Whisk in flour to create a roux, cooking for 1–2 minutes until golden.Slowly whisk in warm milk and cream, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened (about 5–7 minutes). Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheeses until melted and creamy.
- Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce : Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until fully coated. Transfer mixture into a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Step 4: Prepare the Topping : In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
- Step 5: Bake : Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until topping is golden brown and casserole is bubbling. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.