Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Panko Topping

If you’re craving creamy, cheesy comfort food with a delightful crunchy finish, then this Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Panko Topping is your new go-to dish. This recipe combines the lusciousness of a rich cheese sauce with perfectly cooked pasta, all topped with a golden, crispy layer of panko breadcrumbs that adds an unforgettable texture. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a potluck favorite, this baked mac and cheese delivers on both flavor and satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: This dish delivers the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness that melts in your mouth and soothes the soul.
• Crispy Topping Delight: The golden panko topping adds a crunchy texture contrast that transforms regular mac and cheese into something extraordinary.
• Simple Ingredients: It uses common pantry staples, making it both accessible and straightforward for home cooks of any skill level.
• Family Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s a fail-safe way to get everyone around the table happily digging in.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping in advance so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Panko Topping lies in its simple, quality ingredients. Each component is essential, building layers of flavor, creaminess, and a golden finish that’s truly irresistible.

• Elbow Macaroni: Classic pasta shape that holds sauce beautifully without getting mushy.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Provides a tangy, robust cheese flavor that builds the recipe’s signature taste.
• Milk and Heavy Cream: Create a rich, velvety base for the cheese sauce to coat every noodle.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds depth and richness without overwhelming the other flavors.
• All-Purpose Flour: Used to make a smooth, thick roux which is the thickening agent for the cheese sauce.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Light and airy breadcrumbs that bake up crisp and golden on top.
• Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: Subtle seasonings that enhance the overall flavor without overpowering the cheese.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for balancing the cheese sauce and bringing out all the flavors.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds an extra punch of savory sharpness in the breadcrumb topping when sprinkled on top.

Variations for Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Panko Topping

Feel free to make this Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Panko Topping your own by customizing it in easy ways that suit your taste or dietary needs. You’ll find it’s a very adaptable recipe that welcomes creativity.

• Extra Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella or gouda for an even creamier, meltier texture.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for some heat in every bite.
• Vegetarian Boost: Fold in sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free panko to keep the crunch.
• Bacon Lover’s Twist: Sprinkle cooked, crispy bacon into the cheese sauce or on top for smoky richness.

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How to Make Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Panko Topping

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by boiling elbow macaroni in salted water just until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside while you prepare the cheese sauce, ensuring it doesn’t overcook and become mushy.

Step 2: Make the Roux

Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in flour to form a smooth paste. Cook this roux for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to eliminate raw flour taste without browning it.

Step 3: Create the Cheese Sauce

Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Reduce heat and add shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, stirring until silky smooth.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Pour the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, folding gently to coat every piece evenly with that luscious, creamy goodness.

Step 5: Prepare the Panko Topping

In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and grated Parmesan cheese. This will create that signature crispy, golden layer on top once baked.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the cheesy macaroni mixture to a buttered baking dish, then evenly sprinkle the panko topping all over. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and the topping is perfectly crisp and golden.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Panko Topping

• Use Sharp Cheddar: The bolder the cheese, the more flavorful your dish will be.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Slightly undercook the pasta so it holds its shape during baking.
• Stir Cheese Gently: Add cheese off the heat or on very low to prevent clumping or bitterness.
• Crispy Topping Secret: Toss panko in melted butter thoroughly to get a truly golden, crunchy crust.
• Add Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley on top adds vibrant flavor and color.

How to Serve Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Panko Topping

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions brightens the dish and adds a fresh finish.

Side Dishes

This baked mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or savory grilled meats for a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it in individual ramekins for elegant portions or scoop portions into crispy bread bowls for a fun twist everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, maintaining much of that creamy texture and crunchy topping (which can be refreshed in the oven).

Freezing

Baked mac and cheese freezes well if wrapped tightly; freeze in an oven-safe dish and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent the topping from burning but remove foil at the end for crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use different cheeses in this recipe?

Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is traditional, feel free to mix in mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for different flavors and creaminess.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend in the sauce and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to keep the texture without gluten.

Can I prepare the cheese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cheese sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator, then reheat gently while stirring before mixing with pasta.

Why is my topping not crispy after baking?

Make sure to toss the panko with melted butter and bake uncovered at the right temperature; if needed, broil for 1-2 minutes to achieve crispiness but watch carefully.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?

Definitely! This creamy, cheesy baked mac and cheese with crispy panko topping tends to be a big hit with kids due to its comforting flavors and fun crunchy topping.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the warm, cheesy hug of baked mac and cheese, especially when it’s crowned with a crunchy panko topping. This Baked Mac and Cheese with Crispy Panko Topping recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make yet feels special. Whether for weeknight dinners or feeding a hungry crowd, it’s sure to become a cherished staple in your recipe collection. Give it a try and experience the perfect harmony of creamy, gooey pasta and that satisfyingly crisp topping for yourself.

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