Classic Macaroni and Cheese with Crispy Topping

 

Classic Macaroni and Cheese

This comforting pairing brings together the best of two worlds: a creamy, rich macaroni and cheese baked until golden and bubbly, and fragrant coconut jasmine rice that adds a sweet, tropical contrast. The result is a satisfying, balanced plate that feels both homestyle and elevated—a dish perfect for family dinners, cozy nights, or when you want something deeply comforting with a twist.

⭐ Ingredients

For the Mac and Cheese

• 2 cups elbow macaroni

• 3 tablespoons butter

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 3 cups whole milk

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

• 1 cup mozzarella or Gruyère, shredded

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Crispy Topping

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)

• 2 tablespoons melted butter

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

For the Coconut Jasmine Rice

• 1 ½ cups jasmine rice

• 1 can (400 ml) coconut milk

• 1 cup water

• 1 tablespoon sugar (optional but recommended)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons toasted coconut flakes (for garnish)

⭐ Instructions

1. Prepare the Coconut Jasmine Rice

Start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear—this removes excess starch and prevents stickiness. In a medium saucepan, combine the coconut milk, water, sugar, and salt. Stir well, then add the rinsed rice.

Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring once to prevent sticking. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes without lifting the lid. Once done, remove from heat and let the rice steam for an additional 10 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside, sprinkling toasted coconut flakes on top for fragrance and texture.

2. Cook the Macaroni

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente (usually 1–2 minutes less than package instructions). Drain and set aside but do not rinse; starch helps the cheese sauce cling better.

3. Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a large saucepan or skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a smooth roux and cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly until smooth. Continue cooking until the mixture thickens into a silky béchamel sauce.

Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella (or Gruyère). Add Dijon mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese fully melts and the sauce becomes velvety and glossy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

4. Combine and Assemble

Add the cooked macaroni directly into the cheese sauce, stirring until every piece is coated. Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish.

In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, Parmesan, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the macaroni.

5. Bake

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the dish for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp and the edges are bubbling. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

6. Plate and Serve

Serve a generous scoop of creamy, crispy-topped macaroni and cheese alongside a fragrant mound of coconut jasmine rice. The combination of savory richness and sweet tropical notes makes every bite comforting and memorable.

⭐ Final Thought

This dish brings warmth and character to the table—perfect comfort food elevated by the delicate aroma of coconut rice. It’s a delightful balance of textures and flavors: crispy, creamy, soft, and fragrant all at once. Whether you're feeding a crowd or making a cozy meal for yourself, this pairing adds just the right amount of excitement to a classic favorite.

⭐ Tips

• Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce—pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents.

• Add heat by mixing a little cayenne or hot sauce into the cheese sauce.

• Try different cheeses: Gruyère, white cheddar, and smoked gouda all work beautifully.

• For extra richness, replace ½ cup of the milk with heavy cream.

• Make ahead: Assemble the mac and cheese and refrigerate; add topping and bake when ready.

• Rice too thick? Add a splash of hot water and stir until fluffy again.

✨ Bon appétit!