Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our Crunchy Topped Mac and Cheese Delight. This classic dish features creamy, cheese-coated macaroni under a layer of golden, crispy breadcrumbs, creating a perfect balance of creamy and crunchy textures. It's a heartwarming dish that's perfect for family dinners or as a soul-satisfying treat.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- This recipe serves 6 people.
- Each serving is a hearty bowl of mac and cheese topped with crunchy breadcrumbs.
Nutritional Profile (per serving)
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fiber: 2 g
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: 450 g (1 lb)
- Butter: 60 g (1/4 cup)
- All-purpose flour: 30 g (1/4 cup)
- Milk: 720 ml (3 cups)
- Cheddar cheese, shredded: 450 g (1 lb)
- Breadcrumbs: 120 g (1 cup)
- Parmesan cheese, grated: 50 g (1/2 cup)
- Salt and pepper: to taste
Method of Preparation
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a pot, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine the cheese sauce with the cooked macaroni.
- For the Breadcrumb Topping:
- In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake:
- Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for 20 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.
Tips for Culinary Success
- For a richer flavor, mix different types of cheese like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese sauce for a hint of warmth.
- For extra crunch, mix some chopped herbs like parsley or thyme into the breadcrumb topping.
FAQs
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Can I add proteins or vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Cooked bacon, chicken, or steamed broccoli make great additions.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven for best texture.