Baked mac and cheese with breadcrumbs
Baked mac and cheese with breadcrumbs is a classic comfort food featuring elbow pasta coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce, topped with a crunchy layer of buttery breadcrumbs, and baked until golden. It's a staple of American home cooking, with roots in European macaroni and cheese traditions, and is often served as a hearty side dish or main course.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is typically high in carbohydrates and fat, with a moderate amount of protein from the cheese and pasta. A single serving can range from 400 to 600 calories, providing key nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and B vitamins, though it's best enjoyed in moderation due to its richness.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbs | 42 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 750 mg |
| Calcium | 300 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Potassium | 250 mg |
| Vitamin A | 200 mcg RAE |
| Vitamin C | 1 mg |
| Vitamin D | 0.5 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.6 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 220 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it's a beloved staple in American cuisine, often associated with family gatherings and comfort, while nutritionally, the breadcrumb topping adds a textural contrast and can introduce whole grains if made with whole-wheat breadcrumbs, offering a small fiber boost.
