Name: Crunchy Baked Mac and Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound elbow macaroni 4 tablespoons butter 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 cups whole milk 1 cup heavy cream 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 1 cup grated parmesan cheese 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 0.5 teaspoon ground mustard or 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 cup panko breadcrumbs 2 tablespoons melted butter or olive oil

Creamy, cheesy, and topped with the perfect golden crunch, this Crunchy Baked Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food upgrade. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or looking to impress at a potluck, this dish delivers all the nostalgic flavors of classic mac with a satisfying texture that makes it unforgettable.

Every forkful is layered with rich, velvety cheese sauce, tender elbow macaroni, and a golden-brown breadcrumb topping that crisps beautifully in the oven. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table and leaves no leftovers behind.

Why You’ll Love This Crunchy Baked Mac and Cheese

Textural Perfection: A creamy base meets crispy topping for the best of both worlds.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults both ask for seconds!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it ahead of time and bake when ready.
Customizable: Add bacon, jalapeños, or even a hint of truffle oil for a personal twist.
Reliable for Any Occasion: Works equally well as a weeknight side or holiday star.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

A smooth and successful baked mac and cheese starts with the right setup. Here are the essentials you’ll need and why each one matters:

Large Saucepan: For boiling the pasta evenly without sticking.
Medium Saucepan: Ideal for making a smooth, lump-free cheese sauce.
Whisk: Crucial for blending roux and avoiding grainy textures.
9×13-inch Baking Dish: The perfect surface area to achieve a crunchy topping and bubbly edges.
Oven: Baking at the right temperature ensures the top crisps while the inside stays gooey.
Mixing Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Helps combine pasta and cheese sauce thoroughly.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision counts when balancing pasta, milk, and cheese ratios.
Broiler (optional): For an extra toasted topping finish.

Ingredients for the Crunchy Baked Mac and Cheese

Elbow Macaroni: The classic pasta shape for catching creamy cheese in every bite.
Butter: Adds richness to the roux and helps toast the breadcrumbs.
All-Purpose Flour: Used to create a thick, velvety béchamel sauce.
Whole Milk: The base for a creamy, smooth sauce.
Heavy Cream: For extra indulgence and richness.
Cheddar Cheese (Sharp): Bold flavor that defines classic mac.
Mozzarella Cheese: Adds stretch and gooey texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Offers saltiness and depth.
Salt & Pepper: Basic seasonings to balance the cheese.
Ground Mustard or Dijon: Enhances the cheese flavor subtly.
Panko Breadcrumbs: The key to a crunchy, golden topping.
Olive Oil or Melted Butter: Helps brown the breadcrumbs evenly.

How To Make the Crunchy Baked Mac and Cheese

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni until just al dente, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually add milk and cream, whisking constantly until smooth and thickened.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan until fully melted. Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of ground mustard or Dijon.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.

Step 5: Assemble and Top

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. In a small bowl, toss panko breadcrumbs with olive oil or melted butter, then sprinkle over the top.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Broil for 2–3 minutes if you want extra crunch.

Serving and Storing This Comforting Classic

Serve this Crunchy Baked Mac and Cheese hot from the oven for maximum creaminess and crisp topping. It pairs beautifully with roasted veggies, grilled chicken, or a light side salad.

For storing, let leftovers cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I keep my mac and cheese creamy?

Use both milk and cream in your cheese sauce, and don’t overbake. Stirring the pasta with the sauce right before baking also helps preserve the creamy texture.

Can I use other types of cheese?

Absolutely! Gouda, Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or Fontina all melt well and offer delicious flavor variations.

Panko breadcrumbs are best for a light and crispy topping, especially when mixed with butter or olive oil.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the mac and cheese (without baking), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 5–10 minutes to baking time if cold from the fridge.