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Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese with Panko Breadcrumbs and Smoked Paprika Recipe

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4.8 from 57 reviews

A creamy and comforting baked macaroni and cheese featuring a blend of sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheeses, topped with a buttery, crispy panko and Parmesan breadcrumb crust. Perfectly baked for a golden, bubbling finish that satisfies classic comfort food cravings.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 16 oz elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups Gruyère cheese, shredded
  • 1 stick unsalted butter, divided
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup whipping cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Topping

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Make Roux: In a large saucepan, melt 1/2 stick (4 tablespoons) of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden to form a roux.
  4. Add Dairy: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and whipping cream, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  5. Season Sauce: Stir in smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to season the sauce.
  6. Melt Cheeses: Remove saucepan from heat and stir in shredded sharp cheddar and Gruyère cheeses until fully melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  7. Combine Macaroni and Sauce: Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix thoroughly until well combined.
  8. Transfer to Dish: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
  9. Prepare Topping: Melt the remaining 1/2 stick (4 tablespoons) butter in a small saucepan. Mix the melted butter with panko breadcrumbs until well coated.
  10. Add Parmesan: In a small bowl, combine the buttered panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
  11. Top Mac and Cheese: Sprinkle the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese in the baking dish.
  12. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges.
  13. Optional Broil: For a crispier topping, broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  14. Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to set.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting and flavor.
  • Adjust seasoning based on preference; smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky depth.
  • For a lighter version, consider using low-fat milk and cheese options.
  • You can substitute panko breadcrumbs with crushed crackers for a different texture.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in the oven.

Find it online: https://forkoria.com/creamy-baked-mac-and-cheese-with-panko-breadcrumbs-and-smoked-paprika-recipe/