The Creamiest Mac and Cheese With a Golden Crunch
This creamy mac and cheese delivers the perfect balance of rich, velvety cheese sauce and tender pasta. Enjoy it straight from the stovetop or bake it with a crispy, golden breadcrumb topping for extra texture. Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or a comforting side dish!
Equipment
- Large pot
- Strainer
- Medium saucepan
- Whisk
- 9x13-inch baking dish (if baking)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
For the Mac and Cheese
- 12 oz elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika optional
- ½ tsp salt or to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese shredded
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese grated
For the Breadcrumb Topping (Optional)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese grated
- ½ tsp garlic powder
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Tip: For extra creamy mac and cheese, lightly rinse the pasta to prevent clumping.
Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until golden.
- Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the mixture thickens.
- Tip: Stir constantly to prevent scorching and ensure a smooth sauce.
Add the Seasonings and Cheese
- Stir in Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Gradually add the cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Tip: Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and texture.
Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring until fully coated. Serve as is or proceed with baking for a crispy topping.
- Tip: Let the mac and cheese sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to absorb.
Prepare the Breadcrumb Topping (Optional)
- In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder.
- Tip: Toast the breadcrumbs in a skillet for an even crispier texture.
Bake for a Golden Finish (Optional)
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer mac and cheese to a greased baking dish and sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden and crispy.
- Tip: Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra crunch.
Notes
Try different cheese combinations like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or Fontina for unique flavors.
Add mix-ins like bacon, jalapeños, or cooked chicken for variety.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Add mix-ins like bacon, jalapeños, or cooked chicken for variety.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.