Description
This Crunchy Baked Mac and Cheese is everything you want in a comfort food classic—a quick dinner idea that’s loaded with gooey cheese, a buttery crunch, and made from scratch. It’s perfect for cozy weeknights, potlucks, or when you’re craving something warm and hearty. Whether you’re into easy dinner recipes or looking for a standout holiday side, this dish delivers.
Ingredients
200g elbow macaroni
150g sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
100g Gruyère cheese, shredded
100g mozzarella cheese, shredded
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon fresh thyme (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni 1-2 minutes less than package directions.
2. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in milk and cream. Stir in Dijon mustard. Cook until thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in all cheeses until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Fold in cooked pasta and pour into greased baking dish.
6. Toast panko breadcrumbs in melted butter with smoked paprika. Sprinkle on top.
7. Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Add thyme if using.
Notes
Slightly undercook the pasta so it doesn’t get mushy in the oven.
Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest sauce.
Add a splash of milk before reheating to keep it creamy.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 510mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Keywords: crunchy baked mac and cheese, comfort food, easy dinner