Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese
Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy flavors with perfectly cooked pasta. This dish features a delightful blend of sharp cheddar, nutty Gruyère, and flavorful Parmesan, all topped with a crispy breadcrumb crust. It’s an irresistible favorite for family gatherings or cozy nights in, promising to envelop you in warmth with every bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cups whole milk
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour to create a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth and thickened (5-7 minutes).
- Lower the heat and add cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheese until melted (3-4 minutes).
- Gently fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with panko breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor. Add sautéed vegetables such as spinach or broccoli for a nutritious twist. Store leftovers in an airtight container; reheat with a splash of milk for creaminess.