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Creamy One-Pot Mac and Cheese Recipe with Crispy Golden Crust Made Easy

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A comforting and easy one-pot mac and cheese recipe featuring a creamy cheese sauce and a crispy golden crust, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 225 grams)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 200 grams)
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (about 100 grams)
  • 2 cups whole milk (480 ml)
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (45 grams)
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour (24 grams)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup panko bread crumbs (about 100 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, bring 4 cups (960 ml) of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and the elbow macaroni. Cook uncovered for about 6-7 minutes until the pasta is just shy of al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Drain any excess water, leaving about ¼ cup (60 ml) in the pan.
  2. Make the Roux: Lower heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons (45 g) softened unsalted butter to the pan. Once melted, sprinkle in 3 tablespoons (24 g) of flour. Whisk continuously for about 2 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  3. Add Milk and Seasonings: Gradually pour in 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Stir in 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and onion powder, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Keep whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
  4. Incorporate the Cheese: Remove the pan from heat and add 2 cups (200 g) sharp cheddar and 1 cup (100 g) Gruyère cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce. Add a splash more milk if the sauce is too thick.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Fold the pasta back into the cheese sauce, coating every piece. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, toss 1 cup (100 g) panko breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter until evenly coated.
  7. Create the Crispy Crust: Sprinkle the panko mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.
  8. Broil to Finish: Place the skillet under a preheated broiler on high for 3-5 minutes. Watch closely until the topping is golden and crispy. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

If sauce is too thick before broiling, stir in a tablespoon or two of milk. Watch the broiler closely to avoid burning the panko topping. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting results. For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs. For dairy-free, substitute plant-based milk, vegan cheese, and butter alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, one-pot recipe, creamy mac and cheese, crispy crust, comfort food, easy dinner, cheesy pasta

Find it online: https://sofiaspice.com/creamy-one-pot-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-crispy-golden-crust-made-easy/