American Classic Mac and Cheese with a Crunchy Breadcrumb Topping

Name: American Classic Mac and Cheese with a Crunchy Breadcrumb Topping
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 ounces elbow macaroni; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups whole milk (warmed); 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (shredded); 1 cup Gruyere cheese (shredded); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground); 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper; 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)

StandardAmericanDinnerComfort FoodFamily-FriendlyCheesy

⏱️ 20m PREP

🔥 30m COOK

👥 6 SERVINGS

⚡ 600 CAL/SERV

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Overview

A creamy, cheesy delight with a satisfying crunchy breadcrumb topping, perfect for a comforting family meal.

Macronutrients per serving

115

grams

Protein

25.0g 22%

Fat

30.0g 26%

Carbs

60.0g 52%

Rich in nutrients

🔺 Calcium

30% DV

Essential for bone health

☀️ Vitamin A

10% DV

Supports vision and immune function

☀️ Vitamin B12

20% DV

Important for red blood cell formation

🔺 Phosphorus

25% DV

Helps maintain healthy bones and teeth

💧 Omega-3

5% DV

Supports heart health

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

16 ounces elbow macaroni
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk warmed
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
1 cup Gruyere cheese shredded
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Breadcrumb Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs Panko
2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated

Instructions

1 Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2 Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3 In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute until the mixture is bubbly and golden.
4 Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
5 Reduce the heat to low, then add the cheddar and Gruyere cheeses, stirring until completely melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
6 Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring well to coat all the pasta. Transfer the macaroni and cheese to a greased baking dish.
7 In a small bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
8 Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden and crispy.
9 Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.