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A close-up of a golden-brown baked mac and cheese dish with a crispy breadcrumb topping, served in a rustic white baking dish. The creamy cheese sauce coats each elbow macaroni, with the crunchy topping adding texture and visual appeal. The dish is garnished with fresh herbs and set against a cozy, inviting background, highlighting its rich, cheesy, and crispy nature.

Gourmet Baked Mac and Cheese with a Crunch Delight

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A rich and creamy baked mac and cheese topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust, combining comfort with gourmet flair for an irresistible meal.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups elbow macaroni
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

  1. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to form a roux; cook for 1 minute.
  3. Gradually whisk in milk, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Cook until the sauce thickens.
  4. Reduce heat and stir in cheeses until melted and smooth.
  5. Combine cheese sauce with cooked macaroni.
  6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  7. In a small skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Toss with panko breadcrumbs.
  8. Pour mac and cheese into a baking dish. Top with prepared breadcrumbs.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

Notes

  • You can add cooked bacon or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
  • Use a mix of cheeses for a more complex taste.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Method: Baking, Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Comfort Food

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 420 Kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 18g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg