Print

Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe Easy Classic with Crispy Topping

creamy mac and cheese - featured image
Print Recipe

This creamy mac and cheese is a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing classic with a luxuriously smooth cheese sauce and a buttery, crispy breadcrumb topping. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for weeknights, holidays, or potlucks—comfort food at its best.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni (about 3 cups dry)
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Gruyère or Swiss cheese, shredded (optional)
  • 2 oz cream cheese, cut into pieces
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp ground mustard powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Pinch freshly grated nutmeg (optional)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/3 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/4 tsp paprika (for topping)
  • Pinch of salt (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente (7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until bubbling but not browned.
  4. Gradually add whole milk and evaporated milk, whisking to avoid lumps. Cook, whisking, for 4-5 minutes until thickened.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Add cheddar, Gruyère, and cream cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
  6. Add salt, pepper, mustard powder, paprika, and nutmeg. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Fold drained pasta into cheese sauce until evenly coated. Add a splash more milk if needed for a silky consistency.
  8. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, parmesan, paprika, and a pinch of salt until evenly coated.
  9. Pour mac and cheese mixture into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumb topping evenly over the surface.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes until topping is golden brown and edges are bubbling. For extra color, broil for 1-2 minutes, watching closely.
  11. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving for best texture.

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese. Don’t overcook pasta—al dente is key. Taste the sauce before combining with pasta and adjust seasoning. For extra crunch, broil the topping briefly. Gluten-free and dairy-free adaptations are possible. Let the dish rest before serving for a creamier texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, classic mac and cheese, comfort food, easy mac and cheese, crispy topping, family dinner, potluck, holiday side

Find it online: https://wigglebite.com/creamy-mac-and-cheese-recipe-easy-classic-with-crispy-topping/