Description
Dive into a warm, creamy, and cheesy delight with this Baked Macaroni with Crispy Topping. Perfectly cooked pasta is enveloped in a rich cheese sauce and topped with buttery, golden breadcrumbs for the ultimate comfort food experience. Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights at home!
Ingredients
Pasta Base
- 16 oz elbow macaroni (or preferred pasta)
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 large eggs
Cheese Blend
- 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (optional), grated
Seasonings
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
Crispy Topping
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2–3 tbsp butter, melted
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add pasta and cook until al dente, following package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce
- Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in milk and heavy cream, heating gently until warm (do not boil).
- In a small bowl, whisk eggs. Gradually add a few spoonfuls of the warm milk mixture to temper the eggs, then whisk the mixture back into the saucepan.
- Add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until fully melted.
- Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to taste.
Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
Step 4: Assemble the Dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
- Pour the cheesy pasta mixture into the dish, spreading evenly.
Step 5: Add the Crispy Topping
- In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter.
- Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the pasta.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the topping is golden brown.
- Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes for an extra-crispy top, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American