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Crispy Baked Mac & Cheese: 7 Secrets for the Ultimate Easiest Comfort Food


  • Author: Ginger
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

An ultra-creamy, multi-cheese baked pasta dish topped with a buttery, golden-brown panko and parmesan crust for the perfect crunch.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb Elbow Macaroni
  • 4 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups Gruyère Cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 4 cups Whole Milk
  • 2 cups Heavy Cream
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Onion Powder
  • 2 cups Panko Breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F and boil macaroni 2 minutes less than package instructions.
  2. Melt 1/4 cup butter and whisk in flour for 2 minutes to create a roux.
  3. Slowly whisk in warm milk and heavy cream until thickened.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in seasonings and the majority of the cheeses until smooth.
  5. Fold pasta into the sauce and transfer to a baking dish, layering with remaining cheddar.
  6. Mix panko, melted butter, and parmesan; sprinkle over the top.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbling.

Notes

High in calcium and protein, provides ultimate comfort, and is easily customizable with vegetables or proteins.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 580 kcal