Ingredients: (Serves 6)
For the Mac and Cheese:
8 oz elbow macaroni (or any pasta shape you prefer)
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional, for extra flavor)
1/4 tsp salt (plus more for the pasta water)
1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Crispy Topping:
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp melted butter
Directions:
Cook the Pasta – Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce – In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Add the Cheese – Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder (if using), salt, and black pepper.
Combine Pasta and Sauce – Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
Prepare the Crispy Topping – In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, and melted butter until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated.
Assemble the Mac and Cheese – Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the crispy breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
Bake – Bake the mac and cheese in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
Serve & Enjoy – Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness with that irresistible crispy topping!
This Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Topping is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and perfectly crunchy! ️
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