Mac and Cheese Crispy Breadcrumbs (Print Version)
Silky cheddar mac and cheese finished with a golden breadcrumb crunch for extra flavor and texture.
# What You'll Need:
→ Pasta
01 - 2 cups elbow macaroni
→ Dairy
02 - 3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
03 - 2 cups whole milk
04 - 1/4 cup unsalted butter
→ Other
05 - 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
06 - 1 cup plain breadcrumbs
07 - Salt, to taste
08 - Black pepper, to taste
# Steps to Follow:
01 - Cook elbow macaroni in a large pot of boiling salted water until just al dente, then drain well.
02 - In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in flour and cook, stirring constantly, until mixture is bubbling but not browned. Gradually whisk in milk; continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens. Stir in shredded cheddar until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper.
03 - Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated.
04 - Transfer macaroni and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling.
# Additional Tips::
01 -
- Uses basic pantry ingredients you probably have on hand
- Crispy breadcrumb topping brings irresistible crunch
- Ready in under one hour perfect for busy weeknights
- Bakes up beautifully for potlucks or casual gatherings
02 -
- Bakes up crispy on top but stays creamy underneath
- Kid-tested and approved at every family gathering
- Makes fantastic leftovers and reheats well
03 -
- Toast the breadcrumbs in a pan with a splash of butter until lightly golden before sprinkling on top
- Always shred your own cheese for a sauce that melts like silk
- Underbake the pasta a minute or two so it stays perfectly al dente in the oven