Ultimate Baked Mac & Cheese with a Crispy Twist

A decadent twist on the classic mac and cheese featuring a crispy breadcrumb topping and a blend of gourmet cheeses, perfect for any comfort food craving.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Serves: 6

Ingredients

1 lb elbow macaroni
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually whisk in the milk and cream, cooking until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Gruyere cheeses until melted and smooth.
7. Season with salt and pepper, then add the cooked macaroni, stirring to coat evenly.
8. Pour the macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish.
9. In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and parsley.
10. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
12. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

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This recipe is for informational purposes only. Always follow proper food safety practices, cook foods to safe internal temperatures, and store leftovers appropriately. Results may vary.