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Smoky Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Topping

This baked mac and cheese combines creamy, cheesy pasta with a smoky, crunchy topping that elevates the classic comfort dish. The dish is prepared by making a rich cheese sauce, tossing it with al dente pasta, and then baking with a toasted breadcrumb crust until bubbling and golden. The result is a warm, inviting casserole with a satisfying contrast of soft interior and crisp topping.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 530
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz elbow macaroni or shells, cavatappi
  • 2 cups whole milk can substitute half-and-half or heavy cream
  • 2 tbsp butter unsalted preferred
  • 2 tbsp flour for thickening the cheese sauce
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese sharp for flavor depth
  • 1 tsp mustard powder optional, boosts flavor
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs for crispy topping
  • 1 tbsp butter melted, for toasting breadcrumbs
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika adds smoky flavor to topping
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese optional, enhances flavor

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Saucepan
  • Baking dish
  • Whisk
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta and cook until just al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, then whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it turns a light golden color.
  3. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps, and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it thicken slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, mustard powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue whisking until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  5. Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to coat all the pieces evenly.
  6. Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  7. In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs with melted butter, smoked paprika, and grated Parmesan. Spread this mixture evenly over the top of the pasta.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 190°C (375°F) for 20-25 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is bubbling around the edges.
  9. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the cheese set slightly and makes serving easier.
  10. Serve hot, garnished with extra herbs or cheese if desired, and enjoy the warm, cheesy, crispy goodness.