Baked Mac & Cheese with Crispy Topping -

Macaroni and cheese holds a special place in the hearts and stomachs of many, transcending age and occasion to become a universal comfort food. From childhood memories of warm bowls of cheesy goodness to sophisticated variations gracing gourmet dining menus, mac and cheese is a dish that resonates with everyone. In this recipe for Creamy Dreamy Baked Mac & Cheese with Crunchy Bliss, we take this classic comfort food to new heights. Infused with a unique blend of cheeses and topped with a golden, crunchy panko crust, this dish promises to deliver a transformative culinary experience, making it perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or any occasion that calls for a hearty meal.

Baked Mac & Cheese with Crispy Topping

Dive into the world of comfort food with a twist! This recipe for Creamy Dreamy Baked Mac & Cheese with a crunchy panko topping transforms the classic dish into a culinary delight. Featuring a perfect blend of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan, plus a hint of Dijon mustard, this mac and cheese is rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights at home, it's a dish that will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds. Enjoy the experience of homemade goodness and impress your loved ones with this delicious, baked version of a timeless favorite. Perfectly cheesy, wonderfully crunchy, and simply irresistible!

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Ingredients

8 oz elbow macaroni

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

¼ cup all-purpose flour

3 cups whole milk

2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated

1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated

½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

Salt and black pepper to taste

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons olive oil

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a perfectly baked mac and cheese.

Cook the Macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 7-9 minutes. Drain the macaroni and set it aside.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once the butter is fully melted, whisk in the flour to create a roux. Cook the roux for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Gradually add in the whole milk while continuing to whisk, ensuring the mixture becomes smooth and thickened, which should take around 4-5 minutes.

Mix in the Cheeses: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the grated sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheese until they are fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Add the Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Combine Pasta and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce. Stir well to ensure that every piece of macaroni is thoroughly coated with the cheesy goodness.

Prepare the Crunchy Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, and smoked paprika. Stir until the breadcrumbs are well coated with the oil and the paprika is evenly distributed for a smoky flavor.

Assemble the Mac & Cheese: Pour the creamy macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Generously sprinkle the panko topping over the macaroni to create a crunchy layer.

Bake to Perfection: Carefully place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy, making sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Garnish and Serve: Once the mac and cheese is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes. Before serving, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve hot and savor the creamy, cheesy delight!

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6