Extra Crusty Macaroni & Cheese

Servings: 4 Difficulty: Advanced
A creamy, cheesy casserole with a golden, crunchy breadcrumb topping
Extra Crusty Macaroni & Cheese recipe image

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

Difficulty: Advanced
Servings: 4 Calories: 623.3

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

  1. Preheat your oven to 400ðF (200ðC).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni until al dente according to package instructions.
  3. Drain the pasta well and return it to the pot or transfer to a large mixing bowl.
  4. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the white sauce slightly to make it easier to mix.
  5. Stir the prepared mustard and cayenne pepper into the warm white sauce.
  6. Pour the sauce over the drained macaroni and toss to coat evenly.
  7. Fold in half of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the sliced Munster cheese until mostly melted and combined.
  8. Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
  9. Transfer the macaroni mixture into a greased baking dish.
  10. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and the fresh ground Parmesan evenly over the top.
  11. Scatter the breadcrumbs over the cheese layer and dot with the small pieces of butter.
  12. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
  13. 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.

Keywords: macaroni, cheese, baked, comfort food, crusty, cheddar, munster, parmesan, breadcrumbs, vegetarian, dinner, casserole, comforting, shredded cheese, mustard, cayenne
Recipe Card powered by WP Delicious