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Creamy Goldfish Crackers Mac and Cheese

Goldfish crackers mac and cheese - featured image
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This ultra-comforting mac and cheese features a velvety cheddar and American cheese sauce, topped with a crunchy layer of buttery Goldfish crackers and Parmesan. It’s nostalgic, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz elbow macaroni or small pasta shells
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded American cheese or Colby Jack
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp mustard powder
  • Salt & freshly ground pepper, to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups original Goldfish crackers, crushed
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until just al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 4 tbsp butter. Sprinkle in flour and whisk constantly for about 2 minutes until bubbling and lightly golden.
  4. Slowly pour in milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until thickened.
  5. Reduce heat to low. Add shredded cheddar and American cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. Add garlic powder, onion powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
  6. Combine drained pasta with cheese sauce, mixing until noodles are evenly coated. If sauce is thick, add a splash of milk.
  7. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and smooth out evenly.
  8. In a small bowl, combine crushed Goldfish crackers, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Stir gently to coat.
  9. Sprinkle Goldfish topping evenly over mac and cheese. Do not pack down.
  10. Bake for 18-22 minutes, until top is golden and bubbly. For extra crunch, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely.
  11. Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese. Don’t overcook the pasta, as it will continue to soften in the oven. The Goldfish topping can be swapped for other crackers or panko. Make ahead by assembling without topping, refrigerating, then adding topping and baking before serving. For gluten-free, use GF pasta, flour, and crackers.

Nutrition

Keywords: mac and cheese, Goldfish crackers, comfort food, casserole, kid-friendly, easy dinner, cheesy pasta, baked mac and cheese

Find it online: https://lucydishes.com/creamy-goldfish-crackers-mac-and-cheese-recipe-for-ultimate-comfort/