Sheet Pan Crispy Mac and Cheese
This Sheet Pan Crispy Mac and Cheese takes classic comfort food to a new level. Baked thin on a sheet pan, it delivers more of the golden, crunchy edges everyone loves while keeping the center creamy and cheesy. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in — it’s nostalgic, easy, and irresistibly crispy
Ingredients
For the pasta and sauce:
- 1 pound elbow macaroni (or cavatappi for extra texture)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk (warm)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cups shredded Gruyère cheese
- ½ cup mozzarella or fontina cheese
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard or ½ teaspoon mustard powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the crispy topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- A pinch of smoked paprika (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:Boil the macaroni in salted water until just al dente (about 1–2 minutes shy of package directions). Drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce:In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Gradually whisk in warm milk until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Add the cheese:Lower the heat and stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella until melted. Season with mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Combine:Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until well coated.
- Prepare the topping:In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, olive oil, and paprika.
- Assemble and bake:Spread the mac and cheese evenly onto a greased half-sheet pan. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping across the surface.
- Bake:Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are deep golden brown and the center bubbles gently.
- Rest and serve:Let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing. The edges will crisp up even more as it rests.
Video
Notes
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a crisp green salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or even grilled chicken for a complete meal. For a fun twist, drizzle with a bit of hot honey or top with crumbled bacon before baking.
Serve with a crisp green salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or even grilled chicken for a complete meal. For a fun twist, drizzle with a bit of hot honey or top with crumbled bacon before baking.