Print

Crispy Panko Mac and Cheese Topping

crispy panko mac and cheese topping - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy homemade crunchy topping that transforms your mac and cheese with a golden, buttery, and flavorful crust.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (about 30g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 3 tablespoons (about 42g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons (about 10g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • Pinch of salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper, a few cracks

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Melt 3 tablespoons (42g) of unsalted butter until just melted but not browned.
  3. In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 cup (30g) panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, 2 tablespoons (10g) grated Parmesan cheese, a pinch of salt, and a few cracks of black pepper.
  4. Pour the melted butter over the breadcrumb mixture and stir gently until all crumbs are evenly coated.
  5. Heat a small skillet over medium heat and add the buttered panko mixture. Stir frequently for 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown and nutty in aroma.
  6. Remove from heat and transfer toasted crumbs to a plate to cool slightly.
  7. Once your mac and cheese is in a baking dish, evenly sprinkle the toasted panko topping over the surface.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until the topping is crispy and golden brown.
  9. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the topping to set.

Notes

Toast the breadcrumbs over medium heat and stir frequently to avoid burning. For vegan option, use dairy-free butter and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. For gluten-free, substitute panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes. Adding a splash of milk to mac and cheese before topping helps keep it creamy. Reheat leftovers in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy panko topping, mac and cheese topping, crunchy mac and cheese, homemade breadcrumb topping, easy mac and cheese upgrade

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/crispy-panko-mac-and-cheese-topping-recipe-easy-homemade-crunchy-upgrade/