Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumb Topping

Introduction

Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumb Topping is a comforting, golden-baked classic that combines creamy, cheesy pasta with a crispy, buttery breadcrumb layer. This dish is a nostalgic favorite, reminding many of family dinners and cozy gatherings, but with the breadcrumb topping, it adds a delightful crunch that elevates it into a restaurant-worthy comfort food.

It’s a crowd-pleaser that fits every occasion—whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner, a holiday side dish, or the star of a potluck.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy. The cheese sauce is rich, velvety, and deeply satisfying, while the buttery breadcrumb topping adds texture and flavor that makes every bite irresistible. It’s hearty enough to be a main dish, yet versatile enough to be served as a side. Plus, it’s a dish that makes people happy—kids and adults alike light up when mac and cheese comes to the table.

Why It’s a Must-Try

• Comforting & nostalgic: Brings back memories of home-cooked meals.
• Crowd-friendly: Perfect for family dinners or parties.
• Customizable: Endless cheese and topping variations.
• Textural perfection: Creamy pasta with crunchy topping.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories per serving: ~450–500 kcal (varies with cheese and toppings)

Cuisine & Course

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Main Dish / Side Dish

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz elbow macaroni (or other short pasta)
• 1 tbsp salt (for pasta water)

For the Cheese Sauce:

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups whole milk, warmed
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp mustard powder (optional, for flavor depth)
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Breadcrumb Topping:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Simple Directions

1. Cook pasta until al dente.
2. Make cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, and cheeses.
3. Mix pasta with sauce and transfer to baking dish.
4. Top with buttery breadcrumb mixture.
5. Bake until golden and bubbly.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Cook pasta: Boil macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make roux: In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to remove raw taste.
3. Add milk: Slowly whisk in warm milk until smooth. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
4. Add cheese: Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan, mustard powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until melted and creamy.
5. Combine pasta & sauce: Mix cooked pasta into cheese sauce until well coated.
6. Prepare topping: In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic powder, and Parmesan.
7. Assemble: Transfer pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumb topping evenly over pasta.
8. Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
9. Serve: Let cool slightly before serving warm.

How to Serve

• Serve hot as a main dish with a side salad for balance.
• As a side, pair it with roasted meats, barbecue, or holiday dishes.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded for smoother sauce.
• Add a splash of hot sauce or Dijon mustard for tang.
• Don’t overcook the pasta—it will cook more in the oven.
• For an extra crunchy topping, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.

Variations

1. Three-Cheese Mac: Add Gruyère or Fontina for richness.
2. Bacon Mac: Stir in crispy bacon pieces.
3. Veggie Mac: Mix in spinach, broccoli, or roasted peppers.
4. Spicy Mac: Add jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
5. Truffle Mac: Drizzle with truffle oil for a gourmet twist.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in oven or microwave with a splash of milk to prevent dryness.
• Freezing: Assemble mac and cheese without baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 45–50 minutes.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large saucepan
• Whisk
• Baking dish (9×13 inch)
• Mixing bowls

Conclusion

The Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumb Topping is a timeless comfort dish with a crunchy, golden finish that makes it irresistible. Creamy, cheesy, and satisfyingly crispy, it’s versatile enough to shine as a main dish or complement any festive spread. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a family favorite—perfect for weeknights, holidays, or anytime you crave cozy indulgence.