Craving a rich, creamy, and crunchy twist on your favorite comfort food? Look no further than homemade mac and cheese with breadcrumbs—a dish that’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re prepping a weeknight dinner or hosting a family gathering, this recipe brings gourmet flavor to your table without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultra Creamy Cheese Sauce: Made from scratch with real cheese—no processed stuff here!
- Golden Crunchy Topping: Buttery breadcrumbs add the perfect crispy finish.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: Pantry staples come together to create a show-stopping dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need for this baked mac and cheese with breadcrumbs:
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or pasta of choice)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon mustard powder (optional for extra zing)
For the Breadcrumb Topping:
- ¾ cup panko or regular breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Pinch of paprika (for color and a touch of flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Boil pasta in salted water until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking constantly until smooth.
- Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted.
- Add salt, pepper, and mustard powder if using.
3. Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Mix the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until well coated.
4. Prepare the Topping
- Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter, Parmesan, and paprika in a bowl.
5. Assemble and Bake
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pour mac and cheese into a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle breadcrumb topping evenly over the top.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with:
- Garlic green beans
- Roasted tomatoes
- Crisp Caesar salad
- Or enjoy it on its own—it’s a meal in itself!
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven or microwave. Add a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
- Freeze: Not recommended due to the dairy content, but can be done in a pinch.
Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese
- Use fresh grated cheese for smoother melting—avoid pre-shredded if possible.
- Don’t overbake—you want a crispy top but creamy center.
- Add mix-ins like bacon, caramelized onions, or jalapeños for variety.
- Try different cheeses like Gruyère, Fontina, or Monterey Jack for deeper flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the mac and cheese without baking it. Cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add the breadcrumb topping just before baking.
Can I use different pasta?
Absolutely! Shells, penne, or cavatappi work well and hold the sauce beautifully.
How do I make it spicy?
Add a dash of cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or chopped jalapeños to the cheese sauce.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes! It’s cheesy, creamy, and familiar—most kids love it. You can skip the mustard powder if your child prefers a milder flavor.
Final Thoughts
Homemade mac and cheese with breadcrumbs is a timeless favorite that combines nostalgic comfort with irresistible texture. Once you try it with a crispy topping, you’ll never go back to the boxed version again.
So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself (and your family) to a bubbling, golden pan of cheesy perfection!
