Personal-sized mac and cheese made with sharp cheddar and Gruyère, baked in ramekins with a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for individual servings.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease 6 ramekins or a 12-cup muffin tin with butter or cooking spray. Place them on a baking sheet for easier handling.
Cook the Pasta
Cook the macaroni in salted water for about 2 minutes less than the package directions indicate. You want it slightly underdone as it will continue cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat
Add flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to make a roux
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps
Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes
Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Gruyère until melted
Add garlic powder, salt, pepper, and nutmeg
Fold in the cooked macaroni until well coated
Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese until well mixed.
Assemble and Bake
Divide the mac and cheese mixture among the prepared ramekins or muffin cups
Sprinkle each portion with the breadcrumb topping
Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and bubbly
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for best results
Let rest 5 minutes before serving
For muffin tin portions, use a cookie scoop for even sizing