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Classic Baked Mac and Cheese with Golden Breadcrumbs

This classic baked macaroni and cheese with a crispy breadcrumb topping is the ultimate comfort food. Made with tender macaroni folded into a creamy homemade cheese sauce of sharp cheddar, milk, butter, and a touch of onion, then baked until bubbly and golden. A savory topping of seasoned breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese adds the perfect crunchy finish. Simple, satisfying, and family-friendly, this oven-baked mac and cheese is ideal for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or cozy make-ahead meals.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups dry macaroni
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp finely chopped onion
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups homogenized milk or 3.25% milk
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp pepper
  • 3 cups grated medium/old cheddar cheese
  • ¼ cup seasoned bread crumbs
  • ¼ cup parmesan cheese

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
  2. Cook macaroni according to package directions; drain and set aside.
  3. Melt butter over medium heat.Sauté the onion until softened and lightly browned.
  4. Stir in flour and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to bubble. Gradually whisk in milk, salt, and pepper.
  5. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, and cook for 1 minute. Remove from heat and gradually stir in the cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Stir in the cooked macaroni until well coated. Spoon the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
  7. Combine bread crumbs with Parmesan cheese and sprinkle evenly over the top.
  8. Bake uncovered for 30 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden.