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Creamy Smoked Cheddar Mac and Cheese Recipe with Crispy Top

creamy smoked cheddar mac and cheese - featured image
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A warm and comforting mac and cheese with a smoky twist, creamy béchamel sauce, and a golden, crispy topping that adds perfect texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 3 cups shredded smoked cheddar cheese (about 12 ounces)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp white cheddar cheese (4 ounces)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (about 50 grams)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and butter your baking dish lightly to prevent sticking.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and stir constantly for about 2 minutes until pale golden and nutty-smelling.
  4. Slowly whisk in 3 cups whole milk in increments to avoid lumps. Continue whisking gently as the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and creamy.
  5. Stir in 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  6. Remove the sauce from heat and stir in 3 cups shredded smoked cheddar and 1 cup sharp white cheddar until melted and smooth.
  7. Pour the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat.
  8. In a small bowl, mix 1 cup panko breadcrumbs with 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne if desired.
  9. Pour the mac and cheese into the prepared baking dish and evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top.
  10. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the topping is golden brown and crisp, bubbling around the edges.
  11. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving to thicken slightly.

Notes

Do not overcook pasta; it will continue cooking in the oven. Use freshly shredded cheese for best melt and texture. If topping browns too quickly, tent with foil. Let rest before serving to thicken sauce. For gluten-free, substitute flour and panko with gluten-free versions. For extra crunch, broil last 1-2 minutes carefully.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, smoked cheddar, creamy mac and cheese, crispy topping, comfort food, easy dinner

Find it online: https://eliplate.com/creamy-smoked-cheddar-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-crispy-top-easy-and-perfect/