Creamy Macaroni Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumb Topping

Shopping list

• 350 g macaroni pasta

  Sub
• 50 g unsalted butter

  Sub
• 50 g plain flour

  Sub
• 600 ml whole milk

  Sub
• 200 g mature Cheddar cheese — grated

  Sub
• 100 g American-style processed cheese — cubed (or mild Cheddar)

  Sub
• 0.5 tsp English mustard powder

  Sub
• 0.5 tsp salt

  Sub
• 0.25 tsp black pepper

  Sub
• 60 g fresh white breadcrumbs

  Sub
• 20 g unsalted butter (for topping) — melted

  Sub

Step by step

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C fan). Grease a 2-litre baking dish.

2. 2

   Cook the macaroni in a large pan of boiling salted water according to packet instructions until just tender. Drain and set aside.

3. 3

   In the same pan, melt the 50 g butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.

4. 4

   Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, whisking often, until the sauce thickens—about 5 minutes.

5. 5

   Remove from the heat and stir in both cheeses, mustard powder, salt and pepper until melted and smooth.

6. 6

   Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, then tip the mixture into the prepared baking dish.

7. 7

   Toss the breadcrumbs with the melted butter and scatter evenly over the top.

8. 8

   Bake for 25– 30 minutes until golden and bubbling around the edges.

9. 9

   Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.