Save to Pinterest A creamy, comforting macaroni and cheese baked to golden perfection with a crunchy breadcrumb topping—a classic favorite perfect for any occasion.
This baked mac and cheese quickly became a family favorite, bringing back warm memories of cozy dinners.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 400 g (14 oz) elbow macaroni
- Cheese Sauce: 3 tbsp unsalted butter, 3 tbsp all-purpose flour, 700 ml (3 cups) whole milk, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp ground black pepper, 200 g (7 oz) sharp cheddar cheese grated, 100 g (3.5 oz) Gruyère cheese grated
- Crispy Topping: 60 g (2 oz) panko breadcrumbs, 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted, 30 g (1 oz) Parmesan cheese grated, 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200℃ (400℉). Butter a 2-liter (2-quart) baking dish.
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the macaroni in salted boiling water until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make Sauce:
- For the cheese sauce melt 3 tbsp butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for 1 minute until bubbling but not browned.
- Whisk Milk:
- Gradually whisk in the milk. Cook, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens about 5 minutes.
- Season Sauce:
- Stir in the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Add Cheese:
- Remove the pan from heat and add cheddar and Gruyère cheeses. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine Pasta:
- Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix to coat evenly. Pour into the prepared baking dish.
- Prepare Topping:
- Combine panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan, and parsley. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
- Rest:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Save to Pinterest Sharing this dish has become a beloved tradition at family gatherings, bringing everyone closer over a warm meal.
Notes
For extra flavor add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the cheese sauce. Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Pairs well with a lightly oaked Chardonnay.
Required Tools
Large saucepan, whisk, colander, baking dish, mixing bowls, oven.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 520 calories, 27 g total fat, 48 g carbohydrates, 22 g protein.
Save to Pinterest This baked mac and cheese is the perfect comfort food for any occasion, creamy inside with a satisfyingly crunchy topping.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Elbow macaroni is ideal as it holds the cheese sauce well and bakes evenly under the crispy topping.
- → Can I substitute the cheese types?
Gruyère can be swapped with mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a milder, creamy flavor without compromising texture.
- → How to achieve a crunchy topping?
Mixing panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese before baking creates a golden, crispy crust.
- → Is there a seasoning tip for more flavor?
Adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the cheese sauce can enhance the depth of flavor.
- → What side dishes complement this main dish?
A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables balance the richness nicely and add freshness.