Description
A gourmet baked mac & cheese with a crunchy golden topping, featuring a rich, creamy cheese sauce and a crisp breadcrumb crust for the ultimate comfort food upgrade.
Ingredients
- 12 oz elbow macaroni or cavatappi
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) and grease a baking dish.
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in flour to form a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk and cream; cook until thickened.
- Reduce heat and stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Fold cooked pasta into the cheese sauce.
- Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish.
- Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly on top.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce.
- Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra crunch.
- Add bacon or caramelized onions for variation.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American