Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Creamy Garlic Herb Mac and Cheese with Crispy Topping — restaurant-quality recipe photo

Creamy Garlic Herb Mac and Cheese with Crispy Topping

  • Author: Maxine Delarue
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: 🧀 MAC ATTACK
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Indulge in the creamy, cheesy goodness of this Garlic Herb Mac and Cheese topped with a crispy breadcrumb layer. Perfect for a cozy night in!


Ingredients

Scale

8 oz elbow macaroni

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups milk

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

2 tablespoons olive oil

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese


Instructions

1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. 2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. 3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until smooth.

4. 4. Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture thickens.

5. 5. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper until the cheese is melted and smooth.

6. 6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix well.

7. 7. Pour the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish.

8. 8. In a separate bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil and Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle the mixture over the mac and cheese.

9. 9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.

10. 10. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!


Notes

For extra flavor, add cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables to the mac and cheese before baking.

You can substitute different cheeses based on your preference.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: mac and cheese, creamy, garlic, herb, crispy topping