Mac n Cheese with Bread Crumbs Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic with a Twist
Mac n Cheese with Bread Crumbs Recipe is a timeless comfort food classic that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for generations. This creamy, cheesy pasta dish gets an extra layer of flavor and texture with the addition of breadcrumbs. Whether you’re a fan of the original recipe or looking for a new twist on a classic, this bread crumb-topped mac and cheese is sure to delight your taste buds. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making this delicious dish, step by step.
Ingredients
Before diving into the recipe, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to create this mouthwatering mac and cheese:
– 1 pound elbow macaroni
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking process:
1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the cheese sauce: In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk until combined, creating a roux. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Gradually add the milk: Slowly pour the milk into the saucepan while whisking continuously. The mixture will thicken as the milk is added. Continue to cook and whisk for another 5 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Add the cheeses: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
5. Combine the pasta and cheese sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the saucepan and stir until well coated.
6. Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, melted butter, and paprika (if using). Set aside.
7. Assemble the mac and cheese: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the mac and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top.
8. Bake and serve: Bake the mac and cheese for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy Your Mac n Cheese with Bread Crumbs Recipe
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making Mac n Cheese with Bread Crumbs Recipe, it’s time to enjoy your delicious creation. This comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a gathering with friends. Pair it with a side salad or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal. Happy cooking!
