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Crispy Macaroni and Cheese Casserole – Easy Paula Deen Comfort Recipe

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This classic Paula Deen-inspired crispy macaroni and cheese casserole features a creamy, cheesy interior and a golden, crunchy topping. It’s a nostalgic comfort food perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups elbow macaroni, uncooked
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 cups whole milk (or 2% milk)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard powder (optional)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 2-quart or 9×13-inch casserole dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook for 7-8 minutes until al dente. Drain well.
  3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sour cream, salt, black pepper, and dry mustard powder. Stir in shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses.
  4. Add 2 tablespoons melted butter to drained macaroni and toss to coat. Pour macaroni into the prepared casserole dish.
  5. Pour cheese mixture over macaroni and gently stir to combine.
  6. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese until evenly coated.
  7. Sprinkle breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
  8. Bake on the middle oven rack for 35-40 minutes, until the top is golden brown and edges are bubbling. Tent with foil if topping browns too quickly.
  9. Let casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra creaminess, layer additional cheese in the middle before adding the topping. Use panko for the crispiest crust. Assemble ahead and refrigerate, adding topping just before baking. For gluten-free, use GF pasta and topping. Add veggies or bacon for variations.

Nutrition

Keywords: macaroni and cheese, casserole, comfort food, Paula Deen, crispy topping, easy dinner, potluck, family recipe

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