Description
Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort dish: Crunchy Baked Mac and Cheese. With a creamy, gooey cheese sauce, perfectly cooked elbow macaroni, and a golden, crispy Panko breadcrumb topping, this baked classic hits every note of indulgence. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, an easy recipe for your next gathering, or food ideas to wow the crowd, this dish is a must-have. It’s rich, satisfying, and deeply comforting—exactly what every cozy meal needs.
Ingredients
1 pound elbow macaroni
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 1/4 cups Panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons butter (for topping)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
3. Melt 6 tablespoons butter in a saucepan, then whisk in the flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.
4. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, stirring constantly until thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, and all seasonings until cheese is melted and smooth.
6. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and stir to coat completely. Pour into baking dish.
7. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter and toast Panko until golden.
8. Sprinkle breadcrumbs and reserved cheese over mac and cheese.
9. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
10. Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for best melt and flavor.
Toast the breadcrumbs lightly before baking to boost crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: baked mac and cheese, easy dinner, comfort food, cheesy pasta