Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Classic Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Panko Topping Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 6 reviews

This classic Mac and Cheese recipe features perfectly cooked elbow macaroni enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce made with Gruyere, cheddar, and mozzarella. Topped with a crispy, buttery panko breadcrumb crust and baked to golden perfection, this dish is a comforting favorite perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 250g / 8 oz macaroni (elbow pasta)
  • 1 tbsp (15g) unsalted butter (or 2 tsp oil)

Topping

  • 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Sauce

  • 4 tbsp (60g) unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup plain/all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk, warmed (low or full fat)
  • 2 cups freshly shredded cheese, Gruyere preferred (can substitute cheddar and Colby)
  • 1 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese (or more cheese of choice)
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp mustard powder

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package directions minus one minute to keep the pasta slightly undercooked.
  2. Toss in Butter: Drain the pasta and return it to the pot. Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and toss until melted and evenly coated. Set the pasta aside to cool while preparing the sauce.
  3. Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, mix together 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Set aside for later.
  4. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) on any oven setting.
  5. Make Roux: In a large saucepan or ovenproof skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter. Stir in 1/3 cup flour and cook constantly for 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste.
  6. Add Milk: Gradually whisk in about 1 cup of the warmed milk to dissolve the roux, then add the remaining milk. Whisk continuously until the mixture is smooth and lump-free.
  7. Season Sauce: Stir in 3/4 teaspoon salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and mustard powder to the thickening sauce.
  8. Thicken Sauce: Cook the sauce, stirring or whisking frequently, for 5 to 8 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency that coats the back of a wooden spoon.
  9. Add Cheese: Remove the sauce from heat and stir in the shredded Gruyere, cheddar/Colby, and mozzarella cheeses until just combined (the cheese does not need to fully melt).
  10. Adjust Salt: Taste the sauce and adjust salt if needed, though recommended cheeses usually provide enough seasoning.
  11. Assemble: Pour the cheese sauce over the buttered macaroni in the pot. Stir quickly to coat evenly, then transfer the mixture to the skillet or a baking dish.
  12. Add Topping: Sprinkle the prepared breadcrumb topping evenly over the mac and cheese.
  13. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until the top turns a light golden brown. Avoid baking longer to prevent drying out the sauce.
  14. Serve: Serve immediately, optionally garnished with fresh parsley for color and flavor.

Notes

  • Note 1: Panko breadcrumbs give a lighter, crunchier topping compared to regular breadcrumbs.
  • Note 2: Gruyere adds a nutty flavor and excellent meltability; feel free to use cheddar, Colby, or your favorite cheeses.
  • Note 3: Tossing pasta with butter right after cooking helps prevent sticking and adds richness.
  • Note 4: Using a cast iron skillet to both make the sauce and bake can simplify the process and add a nice crust to the baked mac and cheese.
  • Make-Ahead Tip: You can assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://yourdailycook.com/classic-baked-mac-and-cheese-with-crispy-panko-topping-recipe/