These crispy toppings are easy to make and can be adapted for any type of macaroni and cheese you're making. Get creative with your flavor combinations and find the crunch you and your family like best!
Course Condiment
Cuisine American
Keyword how to make a crispy crust for macaroni and cheese, mac and cheese toppings, toasted breadcrumbs
In a bowl, toss together un-toasted crumbs and melted butter until evenly moistened. Stir in desired seasonings, plus a pinch of salt and pepper, to taste.
Top unbaked macaroni and cheese with the crumbs and bake until toasted and crispy, as directed in your recipe. (Keep an eye on the crumbs to make sure they aren't browning too quickly, and loosely cover with a piece of foil if they do.)
For Stovetop or Instant Pot Macaroni and Cheese
Melt butter in a skillet. Add crumbs and cook over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until evenly toasted. Remove from heat and stir in dry seasonings (i.e. salt, pepper, garlic powder, etc.) to taste. Let cool to just warm before adding herbs, and to room temperature before adding any cheeses.
Sprinkle over macaroni and cheese before serving.
To store toasted crumbs: place in an airtight container or zip top bag and refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
For Chips and Cheese Crisps
No need to add additional fat to these toppings. Simply crush and top your macaroni and cheese with them, baking or serving as desired.
Notes
*To crush crackers or crisps, place them in a zip top bag. Press out any excess air and seal. Crush with a rolling pin to desired crumb size. Or, simply pulse them in the bowl of a food processor fitted with the steel blade.