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Close-up of Baked Macaroni and Cheese showing the glossy pale orange cheese sauce and thick elbow noodles.
FL Recipes

Baked Macaroni and Cheese with a Toasted Breadcrumb Crust

This Baked Macaroni and Cheese features a glossy, pale orange sauce and a thick, charred mozzarella crust. Every elbow noodle is perfectly coated and topped with buttery toasted panko peaks for the ultimate comfort food experience.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 8 people
Course: Dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 580
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Elbow Macaroni 454g; boiled 2 minutes less than package directions.
  • 4 tbsp Unsalted Butter 56g
  • 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour 30g
  • 4 cups Whole Milk 960ml
  • 3 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese 336g; freshly grated.
  • 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese 112g; freshly grated for the charred crust.
  • 1/2 cup Panko Breadcrumbs 25g
  • 1 tsp Dried Parsley Flakes Garnish
  • 1/2 tsp Cracked Black Pepper Garnish

Equipment

  • 1 White rectangular ceramic baking dish Essential for even heat and visual presentation.
  • 1 Heavy-bottomed saucepan Used for creating the roux and cheese sauce.
  • 1 Whisk Ensures a smooth, glossy sauce.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water for 2 minutes less than the package directions. Drain and set aside without rinsing.
  2. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Cook for 1-2 minutes until nutty but light in color.
  3. Slowly whisk in whole milk. Continue whisking over medium heat until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of cheddar until glossy.
  4. Fold pasta into the sauce and pour into a white ceramic dish. Top with remaining cheddar, mozzarella, and breadcrumbs.
  5. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Broil for 2-3 minutes until charred edges and golden peaks form. Garnish with parsley and pepper.

Nutrition

Calories: 580kcalProtein: 26gFat: 34gFiber: 2g

Notes

Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt.
Don't skip the broiler step for the signature charred texture.
Keyword Baked Macaroni and Cheese,comfort food,mac and cheese

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