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A close-up of a golden-brown baked mac and cheese dish with a crispy crunchy topping, served in a rustic baking dish, steam rising, garnished with fresh herbs.

Crunchy Gourmet Baked Mac and Cheese

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A comforting baked mac and cheese with a crunchy topping, combining creamy cheese sauce with al dente pasta and a crispy crust.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz elbow macaroni
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups milk
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  2. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in flour, and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Gradually whisk in milk, simmer until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in cheeses, salt, and pepper.
  4. Combine cheese sauce with cooked pasta and transfer to a greased baking dish.
  5. Mix breadcrumbs with olive oil and paprika, sprinkle evenly over the top.
  6. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and crispy on top.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add cooked bacon bits or sautéed onions.
  • Use gluten-free pasta if needed, and substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers for a gluten-free version.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Comfort Food

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 450 Kcal
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg