Nothing says comfort like a warm, cheesy plate of Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs. This dish is the perfect balance of creamy, melt-in-your-mouth cheese and a satisfying crunch from the golden breadcrumb topping. Whether it’s a cozy dinner, a family gathering, or a holiday feast, this mac and cheese recipe is sure to steal the show. It’s the ultimate indulgence, with a crispy, buttery crust that adds just the right texture to the creamy pasta underneath.
Key Information
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Number of Servings: 6-8 servings
- Serving Size: 1/6th of the dish
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Gluten-Free Option: Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb (450g) elbow macaroni (or gluten-free pasta)
- 3 cups (720ml) whole milk
- 2 cups (240g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup (120g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons (60g) butter
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups (150g) breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 2 tablespoons (30g) butter, melted
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Detailed Method of Preparation
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 8 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux. Slowly add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Once the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes, reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, salt, and pepper.
Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Add the drained macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping: In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Toss until the breadcrumbs are fully coated and slightly toasted.
Assemble the Casserole: Pour the cheesy pasta mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Evenly spread the buttery breadcrumbs over the top of the mac and cheese.
Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the mac and cheese for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. For an extra crispy topping, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot!
Tips for Culinary Success
- For Extra Creaminess: Add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese to the cheese sauce for an extra creamy texture.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to mix and match cheeses—Gruyère, gouda, or even a bit of blue cheese can add a unique flavor twist.
- Breadcrumb Variations: Panko breadcrumbs give the best crunch, but you can also use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers for a different texture.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the mac and cheese the night before and bake it the next day. Just cover it with foil and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer. Penne, rotini, or even fusilli work well in this baked mac and cheese recipe.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese the day before, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 35-40 minutes when ready to serve.
What’s the best cheese for mac and cheese?
Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but you can mix in other cheeses like mozzarella for stretchiness, gouda for smokiness, or Parmesan for a salty bite.
Can I freeze Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Once baked and cooled, cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
This Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs is the definition of comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving something warm and satisfying, this cheesy, crispy dish is guaranteed to please. Give it a try and experience the perfect blend of creamy cheese, tender pasta, and crunchy breadcrumb topping—it’s a meal everyone will love!