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Crispy Classic Mac and Cheese Recipe with Perfect Golden Breadcrumb Topping

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A quick and easy mac and cheese recipe featuring a creamy cheese sauce and a crispy golden breadcrumb topping that adds delightful crunch and comfort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) elbow macaroni or small shell pasta
  • 4 tablespoons (56 grams) unsalted butter, divided
  • 1/4 cup (30 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups (720 ml) whole milk
  • 3 cups (about 340 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (113 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 cup (about 100 grams) plain breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 g) of elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until just al dente (usually 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons (42 g) of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes until bubbly and golden but not browned.
  3. Slowly pour in 3 cups (720 ml) of whole milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk and cook until thickened and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Remove from heat. Stir in 3 cups (340 g) shredded sharp cheddar and 1 cup (113 g) shredded mozzarella until melted and smooth. Add 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Pour the drained pasta into the cheese sauce and gently stir until all noodles are coated.
  6. In a small bowl, mix 1 cup (100 g) plain breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon (14 g) melted butter and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Toss until evenly coated.
  7. Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture to an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) oven-safe baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy and the cheese sauce is bubbling.
  9. Let the mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.

Notes

Watch the breadcrumbs during baking; if they brown too quickly, tent the dish loosely with foil halfway through. Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and creamier sauce. Do not overcook pasta; it should be al dente before baking. Let the dish rest before serving for easier slicing and serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, crispy breadcrumb topping, comfort food, cheesy pasta, quick dinner, classic recipe

Find it online: https://hungermind.com/crispy-classic-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-perfect-golden-breadcrumb-topping/