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Crispy Summer Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe with Panko Crust for Perfect Potluck

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A creamy baked mac and cheese with a golden, crunchy panko crust, perfect for summer potlucks and family gatherings. This recipe balances comfort and texture with a subtle smoky warmth.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces elbow macaroni or small pasta shells
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk, warmed
  • 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (divided)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or nonstick spray.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for about 2 minutes without browning.
  4. Gradually whisk in warm milk and cook until sauce thickens, about 6-8 minutes.
  5. Remove sauce from heat. Stir in cheddar, Gruyère, half the Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until cheese melts.
  6. Add drained macaroni to cheese sauce and mix gently to coat.
  7. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon melted butter and remaining Parmesan until evenly coated.
  8. Pour macaroni mixture into prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle panko topping over the surface.
  9. Bake for 25-30 minutes until topping is golden brown and cheese sauce is bubbly.
  10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Notes

Use warm milk to prevent lumps in the sauce. Shred your own cheese for better meltiness. Toss panko with melted butter before baking for a crunchy topping. Cover with foil if topping browns too quickly. Stir pasta occasionally while cooking to avoid clumping.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked mac and cheese, panko crust, summer potluck, creamy mac and cheese, crispy topping, comfort food

Find it online: https://daintydine.com/crispy-summer-baked-mac-and-cheese-recipe-with-panko-crust-for-perfect-potluck/