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Creamy Baked Garlic Mac and Cheese with Crispy Panko Topping

This baked garlic mac and cheese is ultra-creamy, rich, and finished with a golden crispy panko topping. Made with a smooth homemade cheese sauce and baked until bubbly, it’s the ultimate comfort food dinner that feels both cozy and satisfying.
Prep Time25 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time55 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 pound dry pasta elbow, macaroni, or cellentani

Crispy Topping

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons butter
  • 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs

Cheese Sauce

  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 4 cloves garlic crushed
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups milk
  • 1/2 cup milk for slurry
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon powder or vegetable stock powder
  • 3/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese divided
  • 6 ounces mozzarella cheese sliced

Instructions

  • Cook pasta in well-salted water until just al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
  • Preheat oven broiler to 375°F (190°C).

Crispy Topping

  • Melt butter in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
  • Add panko breadcrumbs and toast until golden brown. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.

Cheese Sauce

  • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  • Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
  • Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in 4 cups milk until smooth.
  • Bring to a gentle boil until slightly thickened.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk cornstarch with remaining milk and stir into the sauce.
  • Season with salt, pepper, and bouillon powder.
  • Remove from heat and stir in cheddar, 3/4 cup parmesan, and mozzarella until melted.
  • Add pasta and toss until fully coated.

Bake

  • Sprinkle with toasted panko and remaining parmesan cheese.
  • Broil for 10–15 minutes until bubbling and lightly golden.
  • Let cool slightly before serving.

Notes

  • Do Not Overcook Pasta: It continues cooking in the oven.
  • Use Freshly Grated Cheese: It melts smoother than pre-shredded.
  • Make It Ahead: Assemble and refrigerate, then broil before serving.
  • Add-Ins: Cooked chicken, broccoli, or bacon alternatives like beef or turkey bacon work well.
  • Storage: Keeps well refrigerated for up to 3 days.