Description
A rich and creamy gourmet baked mac and cheese topped with a golden, buttery breadcrumb crust — the ultimate comfort food elevated with layers of flavor and irresistible crunch.
Ingredients
- For the Pasta:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni or cavatappi
- 2 tablespoons salt (for pasta water)
- For the Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk (warmed)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- For the Crunchy Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta 1–2 minutes less than package directions for al dente texture. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in warm milk and cream until smooth and thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy. Add Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Combine cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, tossing until evenly coated.
- Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Prepare the Crunchy Topping: In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra richness, add 4 ounces of cream cheese to the sauce.
- Mix in cooked bacon, lobster, or caramelized onions for a gourmet twist.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the creamiest sauce — pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
- Let the mac and cheese rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to set.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Main Course / Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American