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Ultimate Macand Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumb Topping

Recipe by Food52 on InstagramAdded 26 September 2026.

20 minutes to prep, 30 to cook. This mac and cheese delivers a creamy, savory base with a perfectly crisp breadcrumb topping. The blend of cheddar, Gruyère, and American cheese creates a silky melt, while sage, paprika, and a touch of hot sauce add depth and warmth. Ideal for a comforting family dinner that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.

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Method

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (375°F).

  2. Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.

  3. In a saucepan, melt 4 tbsp butter over medium heat. Stir in 4 tbsp flour and cook for 1‑2 minutes to form a roux.

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: The roux is smooth and lightly cooked. Stir continuously to prevent scorching.

  4. Gradually whisk in 1 cup half and half and 1 cup milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and comes to a gentle boil.

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: The sauce thickens and bubbles gently. Whisk as the dairy goes in to keep it smooth.

  5. Add 1 tsp sage, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce, letting it steep for a minute.

  6. Remove the sauce from heat and whisk in shredded cheddar, Gruyère, American cheese, and mozzarella until fully melted.

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: The cheeses melt into a smooth sauce. Take the pan off the heat before adding cheese.

  7. Stir in 1 tsp hot sauce, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, and the drained macaroni until well coated.

  8. Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish.

  9. Pulse stale bread in a food processor until chunky crumbs form.

  10. Mix the crumbs with 2 tbsp melted butter, 1 tsp sage, 1 tsp paprika, and 1 minced garlic clove.

  11. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the mac and cheese.

  12. Bake for 10‑12 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: The top is golden and bubbling. Check the topping near the end of baking.

  13. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

    Kitchen notes · Added by ReelsMeals: The surface settles slightly as it rests. Let it stand briefly before serving.

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The recipe comes from Food52’s Instagram reel. ReelsMeals wrote it down from the caption and the voiceover. Check the original if something looks off, and for anything about allergens.

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Mac and cheese, 19 ways

17 creators posted their own. Most use garlic, milk and butter.

  1. Kimberly Villalobos50 min6 ingr.Only this one uses gruyere, mild cheddar and colby jack
  2. Jackie Akerberg Healthy Recipes30 min10 ingr.Only this one uses almond milk, nutritional yeast and protein powder
  3. stealth_health_life40 min14 ingr.Only this one uses shellbow pasta, cottage cheese and cheddar powder
  4. Arsenio Eats35 min16 ingr.Only this one uses frank's redhot sauce, fontina cheese and marble cheddar cheese
  5. Jalal40 min18 ingr.One pot
  6. Food5250 min17 ingr.Only this one uses half and half, american cheese and breadcrumbs
Compare all 19 side by side

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