Creamy Baked Mac And Cheese With Crispy Breadcrumb Topping

Ingredients

• 12 oz elbow macaroni
• 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. 2

   In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until smooth.

3. 3

   Gradually whisk in milk and heavy cream. Cook, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens—about 5 minutes.

4. 4

   Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika until cheese is fully melted. Add cooked macaroni and combine well.

5. 5

   Pour macaroni mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. In a bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese and sprinkle evenly over the top.

6. 6

   Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Let cool slightly before serving.