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Baked Macaroni and Cheese with a Breadcrumb Crust

Ultimate Baked Macaroni and Cheese with a Crispy Breadcrumb Crust

This Baked Macaroni and Cheese with a Breadcrumb Crust offers creamy comfort with a crispy topping, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Macaroni and Cheese
  • 2 cups Elbow Macaroni Use pasta that holds sauce well
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Adds richness for the roux base
  • ¼ cup All-Purpose Flour Thickens the cheese sauce
  • 3 cups Whole Milk Provides creaminess to balance cheese
  • 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese Delivers tangy, melty flavor
  • 1 cup Gruyère Cheese Optional for added nutty depth
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Essential for seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon Pepper Essential for seasoning
For the Breadcrumb Crust
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Creates crunchy topping
  • 2 tablespoons Butter (melted) Helps toast breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Adds savory richness
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (chopped) Brightens the topping

Equipment

  • Large saucepan
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • small bowl

Method
 

Cooking Instructions
  1. Cook elbow macaroni in salted water until al dente, about 7–8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter and whisk in flour until bubbly, about 1–2 minutes.
  3. Gradually whisk in whole milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
  4. Remove pan from heat and stir in sharp cheddar (and Gruyère if using) until melted and velvety.
  5. Fold the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce and transfer to a buttered 9×13" baking dish.
  6. In a small bowl, toss panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, Parmesan, and parsley until coated.
  7. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the macaroni. Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
  8. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving to set.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 820mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUCalcium: 30mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Optional: Sprinkle a pinch of smoked paprika on top before serving.

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