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Crispy Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe with Golden Breadcrumbs Easy and Perfect

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A comforting baked mac and cheese with a silky smooth cheese sauce and a crunchy golden breadcrumb topping, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour and stir constantly for about 2 minutes until smooth and golden.
  3. Slowly pour in 3 cups of warm whole milk while whisking continuously. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring often, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Remove the sauce from heat. Gradually add 3 cups sharp cheddar and 1 cup Gruyère cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Pour the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat evenly. If too thick, add a splash of milk. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
  6. In a mixing bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 tablespoon melted butter. Toss until crumbs are evenly coated and slightly moist.
  7. Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese. Dot with remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and crisp.
  8. Let the baked mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Use room temperature milk to avoid lumps. Slightly undercook pasta as it will bake later. Whisk continuously when making roux and adding milk to prevent clumps. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt. Panko breadcrumbs provide the best crunch; toss in melted butter before topping. Tent with foil if topping browns too quickly. Let rest before serving for easier scooping.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked mac and cheese, crispy mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, comfort food, golden breadcrumbs, easy mac and cheese

Find it online: https://bitefuljoy.com/crispy-creamy-baked-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-golden-breadcrumbs-easy-and-perfect/