Easy Baked Mac and Cheese with a Crunchy Topping

Name: Easy Baked Mac and Cheese with a Crunchy Topping
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6.0
Ingredients: 8 oz elbow macaroni; 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup butter; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup melted butter; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp dried parsley

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Satisfy your comfort food cravings with this Easy Baked Mac and Cheese recipe. Creamy, cheesy pasta is elevated with a delightful crunchy topping, making it the perfect side dish or main course for any occasion. Quick to prepare and super satisfying, this dish will become a family favorite in no time.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-10-21T02:21:47.091Z

This Easy Baked Mac and Cheese with a Crunchy Topping is a twist on the classic comfort food. You'll love the combination of creamy cheese sauce and a crispy topping that adds texture to every bite!

A Classic Comfort Dish

Baked Mac and Cheese is a timeless dish that brings joy and warmth to any table. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a favorite among both kids and adults alike. This recipe takes simplicity to the next level, offering an easy preparation that allows you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. While it’s delicious as is, you can easily customize it by adding your choice of proteins, vegetables, or spices. From bacon bits to steamed broccoli, the options are endless. This Mac and Cheese can be a hearty main course or a delightful side dish, fitting seamlessly into any meal plan.

Elevate Your Mac and Cheese

What sets this Baked Mac and Cheese apart is not just its creamy texture but also the delightful crunchy topping. The combination of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and butter creates a delectable contrast to the gooey cheese sauce. This adds both flavor and texture, making every bite a delightful experience.

Moreover, the addition of garlic and onion powder in the cheese sauce infuses the dish with a depth of flavor that elevates it beyond traditional recipes. Each component comes together flawlessly, providing a comforting experience that is sure to please every member of the family.

Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

8 oz elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
1/2 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Crunchy Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup melted butter
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp dried parsley

These ingredients will create a rich and flavorful mac and cheese with a perfect crunchy topping.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Boil the elbow macaroni in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Make the Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour, garlic powder, and onion powder, cooking for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until the sauce is thickened.

Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce. Mix well until all the pasta is coated.

Prepare the Crunchy Topping

In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Combine until breadcrumbs are well coated.

Bake the Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the mac and cheese into a baking dish, then evenly sprinkle the topping over the pasta. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown.

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious baked mac and cheese!

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Baked Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain its creamy texture, reheat it in the oven rather than the microwave when possible. Cover it with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which usually takes about 15-20 minutes.

If you find that the dish has dried out a bit during storage, you can add a splash of milk or a little extra butter before reheating. This will help restore the creamy consistency and ensure that every bite is just as satisfying as the first.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Baked Mac and Cheese pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the cheese. If you want to keep it simple, pair it with steamed vegetables or garlic bread for a comforting meal that’s sure to impress.

For special occasions, try adding a protein such as grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp on top to make it a complete meal. With just a few additional ingredients, you can transform this classic into a gourmet dish that your guests will love.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! You can mix different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or feta for a unique flavor.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the mac and cheese, assemble it, and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.