This mac and cheese hits the luxury jackpot.

A buttery panko topping creates a crisp toasted crust that contrasts the rich cheese sauce and tender pasta underneath.

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

White baking dish of million dollar macaroni and cheese topped with panko with a wooden spoon removing a serving and a blue cloth napkin in the background

Simply Recipes / Photo by Victor Protasio / Food Styling by Chelsea Zimmer / Prop Styling by Christina Daley

Cook the cavatappi until al dente according to the package directions.

Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Meanwhile, in a large Dutch oven, whisk together the flour and 4 tablespoons of the melted butter.

Overhead view of million dollar macaroni and cheese topped with panko in a baking dish with a serving spoon in the corner, all next to a small blue plate with a serving

Simply Recipes / Photo by Victor Protasio / Food Styling by Chelsea Zimmer / Prop Styling by Christina Daley

Gradually add the milk and cream to the flour mixture, whisking constantly, until combined.

Add the cooked pasta and stir until its evenly coated.

Top it evenly with half of the mozzarella (1 cup).

Overhead view of a white dutch oven while mixing the flour, butter, milk and cream ingredients with a wooden spoon for Million Dollar Mac and Cheese recipe

Simply Recipes / Photo by Victor Protasio / Food Styling by Chelsea Zimmer / Prop Styling by Christina Daley

Dollop and spread the sour cream evenly over the mozzarella.

Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top layer of mozzarella.

Garnish with chives, if desired, and serve.

Overhead view of a white dutch oven while mixing the cheese into the cream sauce with a spatula for Million Dollar Mac and Cheese recipe

Simply Recipes / Photo by Victor Protasio / Food Styling by Chelsea Zimmer / Prop Styling by Christina Daley

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Leave us stars and a comment below!

Overhead view of a large white baking dish with assembled pasta and cheese sauce and topped with mozzarella cheese next to small bowls with mozzarella and panko for Million Dollar Mac and Cheese recipe

Simply Recipes / Photo by Victor Protasio / Food Styling by Chelsea Zimmer / Prop Styling by Christina Daley