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Ultimate Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Topping

Close-up of creamy baked mac and cheese recipe with a perfectly golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping in a white dish.
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A recipe for rich, creamy baked macaroni and cheese featuring a sharp cheddar sauce and a golden, crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for family meals or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
  3. In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 6 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  4. Gradually whisk in the warm milk until the mixture is smooth. Continue cooking, stirring often, until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes. Do not let it boil rapidly.
  5. Remove the sauce from the heat. Stir in the salt, pepper, nutmeg, and paprika.
  6. Add the shredded cheddar and Gruyère cheeses to the sauce, stirring until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.
  7. Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until fully coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  8. In a small bowl, toss the panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
  9. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
  10. Let the dish rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Shred your own cheese from a block for the best melting quality. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
  • For an extra layer of flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of dry mustard powder to the cheese sauce when seasoning.
  • If you prefer a softer topping, skip the butter on the breadcrumbs.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savoryskies.com/baked-mac-and-cheese-recipe/