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Baked Mac and Cheese Casserole: Easy Crispy & Creamy Recipe

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This baked mac and cheese casserole combines a creamy, multi-cheese sauce with a crispy panko-Parmesan topping for the ultimate comfort food. It’s quick, crowd-pleasing, and easily adaptable for dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz elbow macaroni (or small shells)
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk (or 2% milk)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (optional, recommended)
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 cup Gruyère or Swiss cheese, grated
  • 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp mustard powder
  • 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 6-7 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbling but not brown.
  4. Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream. Cook, whisking constantly, until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Stir in salt, black pepper, garlic powder, mustard powder, and smoked paprika. Reduce heat to low.
  6. Gradually add cheddar, Gruyère, mozzarella, and cream cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
  7. Combine drained pasta and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. Stir gently to coat.
  8. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  9. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan until crumbs are moistened.
  10. Sprinkle topping evenly over pasta. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until golden and bubbling.
  11. Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes for extra crunch, watching closely.
  12. Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Grate your own cheese for best melt and texture. For gluten-free, use GF pasta and almond flour. For dairy-free, use plant-based cheeses and milks. Prep pasta and sauce ahead for easy assembly. Broil briefly for extra crispy topping. Add cooked chicken, bacon, or veggies for variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, baked casserole, comfort food, creamy, crispy, easy, family dinner, potluck, cheese, pasta, kid-friendly

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/baked-mac-and-cheese-casserole-easy-crispy-and-creamy-recipe/