Table of Contents
This homemade mac and cheese recipe with bread crumbs uses sharp cheddar and gruyere for a creamy cheese sauce.
Panko bread crumbs mixed with parmesan and butter create a crispy golden topping.
The recipe covers ingredient selection, roux-based sauce preparation, topping assembly, and baking techniques for best results.
Question | Answer |
|---|---|
Why should I shred my own cheese instead of using pre-shredded? | Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting and create grainy sauce. |
Why remove the pot from heat before adding cheese? | High heat causes cheese to separate and turn grainy instead of melting smoothly. |
How long should I cook the pasta before baking? | Cook elbow macaroni 1 minute under package directions since it continues cooking in the oven. |
Why use panko instead of regular bread crumbs? | Panko creates a lighter, airier, and extra crispy topping compared to denser regular bread crumbs. |
How long should mac and cheese rest after baking? | Let the dish rest 10 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken and make serving easier. |
Ingredients for creamy mac and cheese with crispy topping
Every great homemade mac and cheese recipe with bread crumbs starts with quality ingredients.
Pasta and Cheese Base
Elbow macaroni | 1 lb (16 oz) |
|---|---|
Sharp cheddar cheese | 3 cups, shredded |
Gruyere cheese | 1 cup, shredded |
Whole milk | 3 cups |
Butter | 4 tbsp |
All-purpose flour | 3 tbsp |
Bread Crumb Topping
- Panko bread crumbs - 1 cup
- Unsalted butter, melted - 3 tbsp
- Parmesan cheese, grated - 1/4 cup
- Garlic powder - 1/2 tsp
- Fresh parsley, chopped - 1 tbsp
Seasonings and Extras
Salt | 1 tsp (plus more for pasta water) |
|---|---|
Black pepper | 1/2 tsp |
Mustard powder | 1/2 tsp |
Paprika | 1/4 tsp |
Optional: bacon bits | 1/2 cup |
Use block cheese and grate it fresh for the creamiest sauce.
Panko creates the crunchiest topping. Regular bread crumbs work too but give less texture.
For more baked variations check this collection of baked mac and cheese recipes.
Want extra cheesy results? Try this 5-cheese version.
Step by step instructions for the cheese sauce
Start with the pasta. Boil salted water and cook elbow macaroni 1 minute under package directions.
Make the Roux
- Melt butter in large pot over medium heat
- Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute
- Stir constantly to avoid burning
- Mixture should look like wet sand
Create the Béchamel
Step 1 | Slowly pour in milk while whisking |
|---|---|
Step 2 | Whisk until smooth and no lumps remain |
Step 3 | Simmer 5 minutes until thickened |
Step 4 | Sauce should coat the back of a spoon |
Add the Cheese
Take pot off the burner. Stir in shredded cheddar and gruyere a handful at a time.
Keep stirring until completely melted and smooth. Add mustard powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Combine with Pasta
Drain cooked pasta well. Add to cheese sauce and stir to coat every piece.
Transfer to greased 9x13 baking dish.
For simpler weeknight versions see this easy homemade mac and cheese recipe.
Prefer a creamier stovetop style? Check this creamy homemade mac and cheese recipe.
How to make the perfect bread crumb crust
The crispy topping makes this homemade mac and cheese recipe with bread crumbs stand out.
Prepare the Bread Crumb Mixture
- Combine panko bread crumbs and melted butter in a bowl
- Add grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor
- Mix in garlic powder and chopped parsley
- Stir until all crumbs are evenly coated with butter
Panko | Light, airy, extra crispy |
|---|---|
Regular bread crumbs | Denser, softer texture |
Crushed crackers | Buttery, salty crunch |
French fried onions | Savory, crispy topping |
Apply the Topping
Spread mac and cheese evenly in baking dish. Sprinkle bread crumb mixture over the entire surface.
Press lightly so crumbs adhere to the cheese sauce underneath.
For extra crunch add more panko. For a thinner crispy layer use less.
Bread Crumb Tips
- Season crumbs before baking for better flavor distribution
- Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for aroma
- Mix in crushed Ritz crackers for buttery richness
- Drizzle olive oil if you run out of melted butter
Looking for more baked options with crispy toppings? Try this baked mac and cheese with panko recipe.
For restaurant-quality results see the best homemade mac and cheese recipe.
Baking tips for golden bubbly results
Preheat oven to 375°F before assembling your homemade mac and cheese recipe with bread crumbs.
Baking Time and Temperature
Temperature | 375°F (190°C) |
|---|---|
Bake time | 20-25 minutes |
Broil time | 1-2 minutes for extra browning |
Internal temp | 165°F for food safety |
Golden Crust Secrets
- Grease baking dish with butter not cooking spray
- Cover with foil first 15 minutes to heat through
- Remove foil last 10 minutes to brown topping
- Watch closely during broil to prevent burning
Common Baking Mistakes
Dry pasta | Undercook pasta by 1 minute before baking |
|---|---|
Soggy topping | Bake uncovered for crispy results |
Curded sauce | Do not overbake. Remove when bubbly. |
Burnt crumbs | Check at 20 minute mark |
Make Ahead Options
Assemble the dish up to 24 hours ahead. Store covered in refrigerator.
Add bread crumb topping just before baking. Cold dishes need 5-10 extra minutes.
For another baked variation see this baked homemade mac and cheese recipe.
Hosting a crowd? Try this 2lb baked mac and cheese recipe.