Name: Crispy Baked Mac & Cheese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb elbow macaroni; 5 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 3 cups whole milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional); 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs; 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional); Pinch of salt and black pepper

Introduction

Crispy Baked Mac & Cheese is a comforting classic elevated with a crunchy golden topping and a creamy, cheesy sauce. This recipe combines sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella for a rich flavor that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and bake to perfection.

A white baking dish filled with baked macaroni and cheese, showing a thick bottom layer of creamy, melted cheese and pale yellow macaroni pasta, topped with a golden brown, crispy breadcrumb layer sprinkled with small green herb bits. A woman's hand holding a spoon lifts a portion, stretching gooey melted cheese strings from the cheesy pasta underneath. The background is softly blurred with a white marbled texture surface visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb elbow macaroni

5 tbsp unsalted butter

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

3 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

1 tsp salt

1/2 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp garlic powder

2 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded

1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded

1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs

3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add macaroni and cook 1-2 minutes less than package directions for al dente. Drain thoroughly; do not rinse. Set aside.

Step 2: In the same pot, melt 5 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until a pale, nutty roux forms.

Step 3: Gradually whisk in 3 cups whole milk and 1 cup heavy cream until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, whisking frequently, until it thickens to coat the back of a spoon (about 5-8 minutes). Remove from heat.

Step 4: Whisk in 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (if using). Gradually add 2 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar, 1 cup shredded Gruyère, and 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, whisking until smooth and fully melted. Taste and adjust seasonings.

Step 5: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Combine the drained macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring all pasta is coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.

Step 6: In a bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs with 3 tbsp melted unsalted butter, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Sprinkle the panko topping evenly over the mac and cheese.

Step 7: Bake for 25-30 minutes, uncovered, until bubbly around the edges and the topping is golden brown and crispy. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Serve warm and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

For extra creaminess, stir in a little cream cheese or mascarpone before baking.

Use smoked paprika to add subtle smokiness, or omit for a classic flavor.

Mix in cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for added texture and taste.

For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

FAQs

Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the assembly step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Can I use other types of cheese instead of cheddar and Gruyère?

Absolutely. Cheeses like Fontina, Monterey Jack, or even sharp provolone can work well. Choose cheeses that melt smoothly and complement each other for the best flavor.