Print

Crispy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe with Easy Golden Breadcrumb Topping

crispy baked mac and cheese - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy baked mac and cheese with a creamy cheese sauce and a crunchy golden breadcrumb topping, perfect for cozy dinners and crowd-pleasing meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni, cooked al dente
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ cups whole milk, warmed slightly
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter (for topping)
  • Pinch of smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter your baking dish lightly to prevent sticking.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until golden and bubbly but not browned.
  4. Slowly pour in 2 ½ cups of warm whole milk while whisking constantly. Stir until the sauce thickens and bubbles gently, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 2 cups sharp cheddar, 1 cup Gruyère, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste until smooth and creamy.
  6. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until every piece is coated.
  7. In a small bowl, mix 1 cup breadcrumbs with ¼ cup grated Parmesan, 1 tablespoon melted butter, and a pinch of smoked paprika if using. Toss until evenly coated.
  8. Pour the mac and cheese into the prepared baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the topping is crisp and golden and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
  10. Let the baked mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the pasta; it should be just shy of fully tender as it finishes cooking in the oven. Use freshly shredded cheese for a creamier sauce. Warm the milk slightly to avoid lumps. Toss breadcrumbs in melted butter before baking for extra crunch. Rest the dish before serving to help the sauce thicken and keep the topping crispy. Tent with foil if topping browns too quickly.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked mac and cheese, crispy breadcrumb topping, comfort food, easy dinner, cheesy pasta, golden crust

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/crispy-baked-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-easy-golden-breadcrumb-topping/