Save This hearty Katsu Curry Mac and Cheese combines the comforting creaminess of American mac and cheese with the aromatic spices of Japanese curry, all topped with a satisfyingly crunchy panko crust. It's the ultimate fusion dish that brings together the best of both culinary worlds in one irresistible baking dish.
I created this recipe after a memorable trip to Japan where I fell in love with katsu curry. Back home, during a comfort food craving, I wondered what would happen if I combined those bold curry flavors with my family's favorite mac and cheese recipe. The result was this incredible fusion dish that has become our most requested special occasion meal.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni: forms the perfect base with ridges that capture the creamy sauce. Choose a quality brand that holds its shape when baked.
- Cheese blend: the combination of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan creates depth of flavor and perfect meltability. Freshly grated cheese melts much better than pre-packaged.
- Japanese curry powder: the star ingredient that gives this dish its distinctive flavor. Look for S&B brand or similar authentic Japanese curry powder for the best results.
- Soy sauce: adds umami depth and saltiness. Use a good quality Japanese soy sauce for authentic flavor.
- Panko breadcrumbs: these Japanese breadcrumbs stay crispier than regular breadcrumbs when baked. Look for authentic Japanese panko for the lightest, airiest texture.
- Dijon mustard: enhances the cheese flavor without making the dish taste mustardy. The tanginess balances the rich cheese.
Instructions
- Prepare the pasta:
- Cook your elbow macaroni in generously salted water until just al dente, about 1 minute less than package instructions. The pasta will continue cooking in the oven, so slightly undercooking it now ensures it won't become mushy later. Drain thoroughly but do not rinse to keep the starchy surface that helps the sauce adhere.
- Create the roux base:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until foaming subsides but before it browns. Sprinkle in the flour gradually while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook this mixture for a full 2 minutes, whisking constantly until it smells slightly nutty and turns a light golden color. This step cooks out the raw flour taste and creates the foundation for a smooth sauce.
- Develop the cheese sauce:
- Gradually pour in the milk in a steady stream while whisking vigorously to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 4 to 5 minutes. Reduce heat to low before adding the cheeses in small handfuls, allowing each addition to melt completely before adding more. This gradual approach prevents the sauce from becoming grainy or separating.
- Infuse with curry flavors:
- Whisk in the Japanese curry powder, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and seasonings until fully incorporated. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2 minutes to allow the curry flavors to bloom and infuse throughout the sauce. Taste and adjust seasonings, noting that the flavors will intensify slightly during baking.
- Combine and assemble:
- Fold the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce using a rubber spatula, making sure every piece is thoroughly coated. Transfer this mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Mix the panko topping ingredients in a separate bowl until the breadcrumbs are evenly moistened with butter and seasoned with curry powder and Parmesan. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the macaroni to create a uniform crust.
- Bake to golden perfection:
- Bake in the preheated oven until the top becomes a beautiful golden brown and the edges are bubbling, about 20 to 25 minutes. For extra crispiness, you can place the dish under the broiler for the final 1 to 2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the sauce set slightly.
Save The Japanese curry powder is truly the heart of this recipe. Unlike Indian curry powders, Japanese curry has a milder, sweeter profile with notes of apple and honey that pair beautifully with cheese. I discovered this when my Japanese neighbor shared her family's curry blend with me, and it completely transformed how I approach fusion cooking. Now I keep Japanese curry powder as a staple in my spice cabinet.
Make-Ahead Options
This mac and cheese can be assembled up to 24 hours before baking. Prepare everything through step 7, cover with plastic wrap directly touching the surface to prevent a skin from forming, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove from refrigerator while the oven preheats, add the panko topping, and bake for about 30 minutes or until heated through and golden on top.
Perfect Pairings
The rich, creamy texture and bold curry flavors of this dish pair beautifully with bright, acidic sides. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. For beverages, try a crisp Japanese lager or a slightly sweet Riesling that complements the curry spices. My family loves serving this with quick pickled vegetables on the side for a tangy contrast.
Customization Ideas
This recipe welcomes creative additions to make it your own. For meat lovers, adding sliced katsu chicken or pork on top creates a complete homage to the Japanese dish. Vegetarians can incorporate roasted cauliflower, peas, or caramelized onions for extra flavor and nutrition. For heat lovers, add a teaspoon of Japanese shichimi togarashi spice blend to the panko mixture for a gentle warming kick.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your cheese sauce seems too thick, add milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency. If it's too thin, simmer a bit longer before adding the pasta. For the crispiest topping, make sure your panko is thoroughly mixed with the melted butter before topping the mac and cheese. If the top browns too quickly during baking, loosely cover with foil for the remaining cook time.
Save This Katsu Curry Mac and Cheese is best served immediately while hot and bubbly. The combination of savory curry, creamy cheese, and crunchy topping makes for a truly unforgettable meal.
Recipe FAQ
- → What makes this dish unique?
The combination of creamy cheese sauce with Japanese curry and a crispy panko topping creates a rich fusion of flavors and textures rarely found in classic comfort dishes.
- → Can I add protein to this meal?
Yes, you can top with sliced breaded chicken or tofu for added protein before baking. Both options pair well with the curry and cheese flavors.
- → How can this be made vegetarian or vegan?
For a vegetarian version, simply use vegetable stock if you wish. To make it vegan, use plant-based cheeses and dairy-free milk alternatives.
- → What type of pasta works best?
Elbow macaroni holds the sauce beautifully, but any short, sturdy pasta, such as penne or fusilli, can be used with similar results.
- → Is there a recommended wine pairing?
A crisp, citrusy white wine or Japanese lager complements the richness of the cheese and enhances the subtle curry spice.
- → How can I make this gluten-free?
Opt for certified gluten-free pasta and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to adapt the dish for gluten sensitivities.