This Extra Crusty Macaroni & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender macaroni enveloped in a rich, velvety white sauce blended with sharp cheddar and smooth Munster cheese. A hint of prepared mustard and a pinch of cayenne pepper add depth and a subtle kick to the creamy base. The real star is the topping: a generous layer of fresh Parmesan, buttery breadcrumbs, and sliced Munster cheese that bakes into a golden, crackling crust. It’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, potlucks, or feeding a hungry crowd. Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that is both nostalgic and indulgent, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite against the soft, cheesy pasta below.
Extra Crusty Macaroni & Cheese
Description
This Extra Crusty Macaroni & Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender macaroni enveloped in a rich, velvety white sauce blended with sharp cheddar and smooth Munster cheese. A hint of prepared mustard and a pinch of cayenne pepper add depth and a subtle kick to the creamy base. The real star is the topping: a generous layer of fresh Parmesan, buttery breadcrumbs, and sliced Munster cheese that bakes into a golden, crackling crust. It&# 226;ÂÂs perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, potlucks, or feeding a hungry crowd. Simple ingredients come together to create a dish that is both nostalgic and indulgent, offering a satisfying crunch with every bite against the soft, cheesy pasta below.Ingredients
Directions
-
Preheat your oven to 400ðF (200ðC).
-
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until al dente according to package instructions.
-
Drain the pasta well and return it to the pot or transfer to a large mixing bowl.
-
In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the white sauce slightly to make it easier to mix.
-
Stir the prepared mustard and cayenne pepper into the warm white sauce.
-
Pour the sauce over the drained macaroni and toss to coat evenly.
-
Fold in half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the sliced Munster cheese until mostly melted and combined.
-
Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
-
Transfer the macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish.
-
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and the fresh ground Parmesan evenly over the top.
-
Scatter the breadcrumbs over the cheese layer and dot with the small pieces of butter.
-
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
-
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set slightly.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 623.3kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 28.8g45%
- Saturated Fat 17.0g85%
- Cholesterol 76.3mg26%
- Sodium 98175.6mg4091%
- Total Carbohydrate 70.8g24%
- Dietary Fiber 14.3g58%
- Sugars 2.0g
- Protein 31.6g64%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.