Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese

by Jimmy McAfee | Jul 12, 2025 | Recipes

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.