Description
Creamy, cheesy pasta baked to bubbling perfection with a golden, buttery breadcrumb crust—this mac & cheese is everything you crave in a comfort dish. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or holiday side, it’s familiar, nostalgic, and totally irresistible.
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
1 lb elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
4 tbsp butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk (warm)
1 cup heavy cream
3 cups shredded sharp cheddar
1 cup shredded mozzarella
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Topping:
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
2 tbsp butter, melted
Optional: 2 tbsp grated Parmesan
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Cook pasta al dente, drain, and set aside.
Make the sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes. Slowly whisk in warm milk and cream until smooth. Cook until thickened (about 5–7 minutes).
Stir in cheeses, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until melted and creamy.
Combine sauce with pasta, then pour into the baking dish.
Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter (and Parmesan if using). Sprinkle over the pasta.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and bubbly. Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 / Serving
- Fat: 26g / Serving
- Carbohydrates: 38g / Serving
- Protein: 15g / Serving