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Three Cheese Baked Macaroni

Three Cheese Baked Macaroni

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  • Author: Lina
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Three Cheese Baked Macaroni is a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic featuring tender macaroni pasta baked with a luscious blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. This easy-to-make recipe offers a rich, melty sauce with a crispy breadcrumb topping, perfect for a cozy family meal or quick weeknight dinner. Customizable and meal prep friendly, it delivers warmth and satisfying flavor with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni pasta

Cheese Blend

  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly grated
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Cheese Sauce Base

  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups milk
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Topping (Optional)

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon melted butter (for mixing with breadcrumbs)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Start by boiling the macaroni in salted water until just al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the cheese sauce, ensuring the pasta keeps its shape and texture during baking.
  2. Make the cheese sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in flour to create a roux. Slowly add milk while continuously whisking to avoid lumps. Once the sauce thickens, stir in sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and silky smooth.
  3. Combine pasta and sauce: Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the cooked macaroni, folding gently to coat every piece evenly. This step guarantees that every bite bursts with cheesy goodness.
  4. Assemble and top: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. For a crunchy finish, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top before baking.
  5. Bake until bubbly: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese sauce is bubbling hot, signaling that the Three Cheese Baked Macaroni is perfectly cooked.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can contain anti-caking agents that affect melt and texture.
  • Don’t overcook pasta: Aim for al dente as it will continue cooking in the oven, ensuring no mushy bites.
  • Slowly whisk milk: Adding milk gradually when making the roux prevents lumps and guarantees a silky sauce.
  • Add flavor extras: A pinch of garlic powder or mustard powder can enhance depth without overpowering.
  • Rest before serving: Let the baked macaroni sit for a few minutes to help the sauce thicken and make serving easier.
  • For a crispy topping, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter before sprinkling on top.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 390
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 500mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 11g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 16g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg

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Find it online: https://delectablemeal.com/three-cheese-baked-macaroni/