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Crispy Smoked Mac and Cheese Recipe with Golden Breadcrumb Topping

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A creamy and gooey mac and cheese with smoky depth from smoked gouda and sharp cheddar, topped with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb layer. Perfect for comfort food lovers seeking a quick and easy indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces (340 grams) elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons (60 grams) unsalted butter, divided
  • 1/4 cup (30 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups (720 ml) whole milk, warmed
  • 2 cups (200 grams) sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup (100 grams) smoked gouda cheese, shredded
  • 1 teaspoon yellow mustard powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups (150 grams) panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup (50 grams) parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces (340 grams) elbow macaroni and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons (30 grams) of butter. Whisk in 1/4 cup (30 grams) all-purpose flour and cook for about 2 minutes without browning.
  3. Slowly pour in 3 cups (720 ml) warmed whole milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and thicken for 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
  4. Stir in 2 cups (200 grams) sharp cheddar and 1 cup (100 grams) smoked gouda until melted and smooth. Add 1 teaspoon yellow mustard powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir and set aside.
  5. Pour the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce and fold gently to coat every noodle.
  6. In a small bowl, mix 1 1/2 cups (150 grams) panko breadcrumbs with 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated parmesan and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Melt remaining 2 tablespoons (30 grams) butter and toss with breadcrumb mixture.
  7. Transfer mac and cheese mixture into a 9×13 inch (23×33 cm) ovenproof baking dish, spreading evenly. Sprinkle breadcrumb topping evenly over the surface.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until topping is golden brown and bubbling. For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes watching closely.
  9. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting. Warm the milk before adding to the roux to avoid lumps. Toss breadcrumbs in melted butter before baking for a golden, crispy topping. Watch the broiler closely to prevent burning. You can add chopped parsley before serving for freshness. Gluten-free and dairy-free adaptations are possible with substitutions.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, smoked gouda, crispy breadcrumb topping, comfort food, cheesy pasta, easy dinner, smoky mac and cheese

Find it online: https://shimmersnack.com/crispy-smoked-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-golden-breadcrumb-topping-easy-and-perfect/