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A steaming bowl of classic mac and cheese dinner with golden-brown topping

Ultimate Golden Crust Mac and Cheese Dinner

This creamy, cheesy mac and cheese features a golden, crispy crust and is perfect as a comforting dinner or side dish. It combines sharp cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan for a rich flavor.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large pot
  • Large saucepan or Dutch oven
  • Whisk
  • Small bowl

Ingredients
  

Mac and Cheese

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni or other small pasta shape
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 4 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
  • 2 cups shredded Gruyere or Monterey Jack cheese divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese divided
  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter for topping

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly butter a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Cook macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.

Cheese Sauce

  • Melt 1/2 cup unsalted butter over medium heat in a large saucepan; whisk in flour for 1-2 minutes to form a smooth roux.
  • Gradually whisk in warm milk until the sauce thickens and simmers, then remove from heat.
  • Stir in mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, then add 3 cups sharp cheddar, 1.5 cups Gruyere/Monterey Jack, and 1/4 cup Parmesan until smooth and creamy.

Assembly & Baking

  • Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and pour into the prepared baking dish.
  • Mix panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons melted butter, remaining cheddar, Gruyere/Monterey Jack, and Parmesan, then sprinkle over the mac and cheese.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly; tent with foil if browning too quickly.
  • Let the mac and cheese rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Notes

For an extra crispy topping, you can broil the mac and cheese for the last few minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Remember to adjust seasoning to your personal preference!