Mac and Cheese Recipe: Creamy and Crispy Comfort
Creamy baked mac and cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping, ideal for comfort meals.
Ingredients
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk warmed
- 2 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 tsp mustard powder 1/4 tsp garlic powder, 1/4 tsp cayenne
- Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: 1 tsp smoked paprika
- For Serving:
- Optional: 2 tbsp fresh parsley
- Suggested Sides: Green salad broccoli
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook macaroni al dente; drain.
- Melt butter; whisk in flour for 1-2 minutes. Add milk, whisk until thickened.
- Stir in cheeses, salt, pepper, and optional seasonings over low heat until smooth.
- Mix the macaroni with the sauce. Transfer to a greased 9x13-inch dish.
- Combine panko, butter, Parmesan, and optional paprika; sprinkle over macaroni. Bake 20-25 minutes until golden.
- Garnish with optional parsley; serve with salad or broccoli.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for smoothness.
- Cook pasta al dente to avoid mushiness.
- Store in fridge or freeze.
- Serve with garlic bread or a salad.