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Three Cheese Baked Macaroni: Best Creamy Comfort Recipe

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Three Cheese Baked Macaroni is a rich and creamy comfort food dish made with tender elbow pasta, a smooth three-cheese sauce, and a crispy golden breadcrumb topping baked until bubbly and delicious.

  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz elbow macaroni
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
  • Extra parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
  4. Slowly add milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and Dijon mustard.
  6. Add cheddar, mozzarella, and half of the parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
  7. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and mix until fully coated.
  8. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking dish.
  9. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top along with remaining parmesan cheese.
  10. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and bubbling.
  11. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest sauce.
  • Do not overcook the pasta before baking.
  • Let the dish rest before serving so the sauce thickens.
  • Add cooked bacon, chicken, or vegetables for variations.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutrition

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