Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese with Crunchy Panko-Parmesan Topping Recipe

If you have ever dreamed of a comforting, cheesy, and utterly irresistible pasta dish, then you are in for a treat with the Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese with Crunchy Panko-Parmesan Topping Recipe. This isn’t just any mac and cheese—it’s outrageously creamy, made with a luscious blend of three cheeses that melt into a silky homemade sauce, generously baked to golden perfection. Topped with a crispy, flavorful panko and Parmesan crust, this dish brings the best of creamy softness and satisfying crunch together in every bite. Whether you’re serving a crowd or simply craving the ultimate comfort food, this recipe promises to deliver joy, nostalgia, and an unforgettable taste experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward making this dreamy Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese with Crunchy Panko-Parmesan Topping Recipe truly shine. Each ingredient plays an essential role—from the tender pasta that holds the sauce, to the rich cheeses that give this dish its bold flavor and creamy texture, and finally the crispy topping that adds that much-loved crunch.

• 16 oz elbow macaroni: This classic tubular pasta is perfect for holding onto all that luscious cheese sauce.
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: A light coating keeps the pasta from sticking and adds a hint of fruity flavor.
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter: Melted into the roux for a rich, velvety cheese sauce base.
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce to ideal creamy consistency without being heavy.
• 3 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess and balances the cheese flavors.
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream: Makes the sauce decadently smooth and rich.
• 4 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Delivers bold, tangy cheddar flavor that mac and cheese is famous for.
• 2 cups Gruyere cheese, shredded: Offers a nutty, melty quality that elevates the sauce to gourmet level.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• 1 1/2 cups panko crumbs: Creates that irresistible crunchy topping with extra lightness.
• 4 tbsp butter, melted: Binds the panko crumbs and Parmesan to golden, crispy perfection.
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded: Adds sharpness and a salty bite to the crunchy topping.
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika): A subtle smoky warmth that takes the topping from good to unforgettable.

How to Make Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese with Crunchy Panko-Parmesan Topping Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pasta

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a large baking dish—3 to 4 quarts will work perfectly to hold all that cheesy goodness. Cook your elbow macaroni just one minute less than al dente; this slight undercooking ensures the pasta finishes cooking in the oven, absorbing all the creamy sauce without getting mushy. After draining, drizzle the pasta with olive oil and gently toss to prevent clumping. Set aside while you prepare the cheese sauce.

Step 2: Make the Roux and Cheese Sauce

In a deep saucepan or Dutch oven, melt your butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and keep stirring for about a minute until bubbly and golden, which cooks out the raw flour taste and forms a smooth roux. Gradually add the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly to keep the mixture smooth. When the sauce begins to bubble, continue whisking and cooking for another two minutes until it thickens delightfully. Season with salt and pepper to bring all the flavors forward.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded sharp cheddar and Gruyere cheeses in two batches, whisking constantly until completely melted and silky. This step transforms your sauce into the velvety, creamy heart of the Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese with Crunchy Panko-Parmesan Topping Recipe. Ensure the sauce is thick but pourable so it coats every nook of the pasta perfectly.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce

Pour your golden cheese sauce over the cooked pasta and gently fold everything together until each elbow is luxuriously coated. This is where the magic happens as the pasta absorbs the cheese flavor, promising tons of rich, gooey bites in every serving.

Step 5: Prepare the Crunchy Panko-Parmesan Topping

In a small bowl, mix the panko crumbs with melted butter, shredded Parmesan cheese, and smoked paprika. This combination not only imparts a gorgeous golden color but also gives your dish that signature satisfying crunch paired with a hint of smoky depth. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the mac and cheese in the baking dish for the ultimate finishing touch.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place your baking dish in the oven and bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and crisp, and the cheese sauce is bubbling around the edges. Your home will be filled with the most mouthwatering aroma, signaling that the Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese with Crunchy Panko-Parmesan Topping Recipe is ready to delight!

How to Serve Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese with Crunchy Panko-Parmesan Topping Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your mac and cheese experience even further, sprinkle fresh chopped herbs like parsley or chives on top. These bright green garnishes add a fresh flavor contrast and a pop of color that makes the dish even more inviting. A small drizzle of truffle oil on top can also add an indulgent touch for special occasions.

Side Dishes

This creamy, cheesy masterpiece pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides to balance its richness. Try serving it alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette, garlic-roasted green beans, or even roasted seasonal vegetables. For a heartier meal, add crispy fried chicken or smoky grilled sausages.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Serve this Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese with Crunchy Panko-Parmesan Topping Recipe in individual ramekins for charming personal portions. You can also use mini cast iron skillets for a rustic presentation that keeps the cheese bubbling hot at the table. Adding a sprinkle of extra cheese and broiling for a minute just before serving gives the top an extra layer of browned, bubbly delight.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover mac and cheese? No problem! Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making reheated servings just as enjoyable the next day.

Freezing

This recipe also freezes well. Store the unbaked mac and cheese in a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking to maintain the creamy texture and crisp topping.

Reheating

For best results, reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes. To revive the crunchy topping, finish with a few minutes under the broiler but watch carefully so it doesn’t burn. Microwaving works in a pinch but may soften the crispy topping.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional and holds sauce beautifully, other tubular pastas like cavatappi, penne, or shells work perfectly in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time to avoid overcooking.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and using gluten-free panko crumbs, you can enjoy this Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese with Crunchy Panko-Parmesan Topping Recipe without worry.

Can I use only one type of cheese?

While using all one cheese is possible, the combination of sharp cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan yields a more complex, richer flavor and better melting texture. Mixing cheeses is what makes this recipe truly stand out!

What is the purpose of olive oil on the pasta?

The olive oil lightly coats the pasta after draining to prevent it from sticking together before mixing with the cheese sauce, keeping your mac and cheese perfectly creamy and smooth.

How should I adjust the recipe for smaller or larger portions?

This recipe is perfect for a crowd, but you can easily halve or double the ingredients as needed. Just keep the same ratios to maintain the creamy texture and flavorful topping that make this Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese with Crunchy Panko-Parmesan Topping Recipe so special.

Final Thoughts

There is something wonderfully nostalgic and comforting about a perfect bowl of mac and cheese, and the Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese with Crunchy Panko-Parmesan Topping Recipe takes that classic to extraordinary heights. It is a dish that invites smiles, warm memories, and requests for seconds every single time. So, grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and dive into this incredible recipe that marries creamy cheese sauce with crunchy topping bliss. I promise it will quickly become one of your favorite homemade dishes too!

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