Name: Baked Mac and Cheese with a Crunchy Topping
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cups whole milk; ¼ cup heavy cream; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 tsp mustard powder; 1 tsp garlic powder (optional); 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)

This comforting Baked Mac and Cheese features creamy, cheesy pasta topped with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping. The blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and a hint of Parmesan creates a rich, melt-in-your-mouth filling. The crispy topping made from panko breadcrumbs and butter adds the perfect contrast to the creamy base. Ideal for a cozy dinner or as a side dish to complement roasted meats, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Simple to make yet incredibly satisfying, this mac and cheese is a great way to elevate your dinner table with minimal effort.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

For extra creaminess, use a mix of whole milk and heavy cream.
Add a dash of garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra flavor.
Experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or gouda for a twist.
Make ahead and bake when ready for a stress-free meal.

Yield: 8 servings

Baked Mac and Cheese with a Crunchy Topping

A creamy mac and cheese topped with a crunchy, golden breadcrumb topping, perfect for dinner.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 50 minutes

Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups whole milk
¼ cup heavy cream
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp mustard powder
1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Cook macaroni according to package directions, drain, and set aside.
In a large pot, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Slowly whisk in milk and cream, then cook until thickened (about 5-7 minutes).
Stir in cheese, mustard powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix well.
Pour into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, then sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
Bake for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

You can use gluten-free pasta if needed.
For an extra kick, add some cooked bacon or sautéed onions.
Make ahead and refrigerate; then bake when ready to serve.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 540Total Fat 35gSaturated Fat 20gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 11gCholesterol 98mgSodium 1065mgCarbohydrates 31gFiber 2gSugar 5gProtein 25g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.