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Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe with Crispy Breadcrumb Topping Easy and Perfect

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A quick and easy creamy mac and cheese with a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping that adds a delightful crunch to the classic comfort dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 oz (225 g) elbow macaroni
  • 4 tbsp (60 g) unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp (24 g) all-purpose flour
  • 2 ½ cups (600 ml) whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (200 g)
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (100 g)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 cup (100 g) breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
  • ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz (225 g) elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tbsp (60 g) unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in 3 tbsp (24 g) all-purpose flour. Stir constantly for 2 minutes until bubbly and golden, but not browned.
  3. Slowly pour in 2 ½ cups (600 ml) whole milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 6-8 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar and 1 cup (100 g) shredded Gruyère until melted and smooth. Season with 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, and ½ tsp garlic powder. Taste and adjust as necessary.
  5. Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and gently fold until evenly coated.
  6. In a small skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add 1 cup (100 g) breadcrumbs and ¼ cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese. Stir constantly, toasting until golden brown and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
  7. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to an 8×8 inch oven-safe baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the toasted breadcrumb topping over the pasta. Optional: sprinkle 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for color.
  8. Place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and the topping is crisp and golden.
  9. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to thicken and flavors meld.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce. Toast breadcrumbs carefully to avoid burning. If sauce is too thick before baking, whisk in a splash of milk. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. For dairy-free, use plant-based milk and vegan cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, breadcrumb topping, comfort food, easy dinner, cheesy pasta, quick mac and cheese

Find it online: https://cooksybite.com/creamy-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-crispy-breadcrumb-topping-easy-and-perfect/