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Three-cheese mac and cheese

Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese in 30 Minutes


  • Author: Mary
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This creamy, cheesy, and ultra-indulgent Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese is the perfect comfort food! Featuring a rich blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan, this baked mac and cheese is crispy on top and gooey inside. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or potlucks.


Ingredients

Scale

    • 1 pound elbow macaroni

    • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

    • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (2 ounces)

    • 4 cups whole milk

    • 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard

    • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

    • Optional: 1 clove garlic, grated (highly recommended, see notes)

    • 12 ounces freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese (preferably extra sharp)

    • 6 ounces freshly grated American cheese (deli counter only, see notes)

    • 6 ounces freshly grated gruyere cheese

    • Optional: Freshly ground black pepper to taste


Instructions

    1. Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. 

    1. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a smooth paste forms (this is called a roux).

    1. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly.

    1. Stir in the dry mustard, cayenne pepper, and optional grated garlic. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.

    1. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, American cheese, and gruyere cheese, one handful at a time, until melted and smooth. 

    1. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

    1. Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to combine.

    1. At this point, you can either serve the mac and cheese immediately or transfer it to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: per serving
  • Calories: ~620 kcal
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 38g
  • Saturated Fat: 23g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: Macaroni and cheese, cheesy pasta bake