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Three Cheese Mac and Cheese

🧀 3-Cheese Mac and Cheese

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: 560
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb elbow macaroni or cavatappi
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk warm
  • 1 cup heavy cream optional for richness
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • Cheeses shredded/grated:
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar
  • 1 cup Gruyère or Swiss
  • 1 cup mozzarella or Monterey Jack for creaminess
  • Optional Topping:
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp melted butter
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

Method
 

Cook Pasta:
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook macaroni until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Roux:
  1. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
Add Milk & Seasonings:
  1. Slowly whisk in warm milk and cream. Stir until smooth and thickened (about 5–6 minutes). Add Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Melt the Cheese:
  1. Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella until melted and creamy.
Combine Pasta & Sauce:
  1. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
Optional Bake:
  1. Pour mac and cheese into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and Parmesan, sprinkle on top.
  3. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Serve:
  1. Spoon into bowls and enjoy hot, gooey, and cheesy!

Notes

Cheese Variations: Try Fontina, Havarti, or Pepper Jack for different flavor profiles.
Ultra Creamy (Stovetop-Only): Skip baking and serve directly after mixing pasta with cheese sauce.
Make Ahead: Assemble up to step 5, refrigerate, then bake before serving.
Spice It Up: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for heat.
Protein Boost: Stir in cooked bacon, ham, or shredded chicken.