Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese
Serves: 6–8 | ⏱️ Total Time: ~45 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Pasta:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni (or shells, cavatappi, etc.)
- Salted water, for boiling
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk (warm)
- 1 cup heavy cream (optional, for richness)
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp smoked paprika or mustard powder (optional, for depth)
Cheeses:
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup gruyère cheese, shredded (melts creamy and adds nuttiness)
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated (for sharpness and texture)
Tip: Use block cheese and shred it yourself — it melts much better than pre-shredded.
Optional Topping:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
- Sprinkle of extra parmesan or paprika
Instructions:
1. Boil the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Make the Roux
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly until light golden (this cooks out the raw flour taste).
3. Add Milk and Cream
- Slowly whisk in the warm milk and cream, ensuring no lumps form.
- Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 5–7 minutes).
4. Season the Sauce
- Stir in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika/mustard powder if using.
5. Add the Cheese
- Lower heat and gradually stir in the cheddar, gruyère, and parmesan until fully melted and smooth.
6. Combine with Pasta
- Fold the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
7. Bake (Optional)
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pour mac and cheese into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle on top.
- Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
Serve Warm
Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley or extra cheese if you like. Pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, fried chicken, or just a spoon.