Description
This Crunchy Baked Mac and Cheese features a creamy, cheesy center with a golden breadcrumb topping. A classic comfort food perfect for easy dinners, potlucks, and family gatherings.
Ingredients
12 oz elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Cook macaroni in salted water until al dente and drain.
3. Melt butter in a saucepan and whisk in flour.
4. Slowly whisk in milk and cook until thickened.
5. Add cheeses and seasonings and stir until smooth.
6. Mix cheese sauce with cooked macaroni.
7. Transfer to baking dish.
8. Top with buttered breadcrumbs.
9. Bake uncovered until bubbly and golden.
10. Rest briefly before serving.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for best texture.
Avoid overbaking to keep the mac and cheese creamy.
Broil briefly for extra crunch if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: crunchy baked mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, comfort food, easy dinner