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A close-up of a golden-brown baked mac and cheese casserole topped with crispy breadcrumbs, creamy cheese sauce bubbling at the edges, garnished with chopped herbs on a rustic wooden table.

Crunchy Gourmet Baked Mac and Cheese Delight

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This gourmet baked mac and cheese combines creamy cheese sauce with a crunchy breadcrumb topping for a flavorful and indulgent meal.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Cook macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, drain and set aside.
  2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Gradually add milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened.
  4. Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Add shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and creamy.
  6. Combine cheese sauce with cooked pasta and transfer to a baking dish.
  7. Mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil and sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
  8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Notes

  • Use fresh shredded cheese for better meltability.
  • Feel free to add cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for extra flavor.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Method: Baking/Layering
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Comfort Food

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 480 Kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 21g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg