This baked three-cheese mac and cheese is a creamy and indulgent dish that combines the richness of three different cheeses for a delightful flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a comforting and satisfying meal.
The recipe is simple to follow and can be customized with your favorite pasta shapes or additional toppings like breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.
Overview of Baked Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese
This baked three-cheese mac and cheese brings together a delightful blend of flavors, making it a favorite for many. The combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan creates a creamy texture that perfectly coats the pasta.
With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a total cooking time of 30 minutes, this dish is not only delicious but also convenient for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It serves six, making it an ideal choice for sharing.
Ingredients That Make It Special
The key to this mac and cheese lies in its ingredients. Starting with elbow macaroni, the choice of pasta can be flexible, allowing for personal preferences.
The rich cheese sauce is crafted from butter, flour, and milk, forming a base that is then enriched with three types of cheese. Garlic and onion powders add depth to the flavor, while optional breadcrumbs provide a satisfying crunch when baked to golden perfection.
Preparation Steps for Success
Begin by cooking the pasta until it reaches an al dente texture. This ensures that it holds up well when mixed with the creamy cheese sauce.
Next, the cheese sauce is prepared by melting butter and whisking in flour, followed by milk until thickened. The cheeses are then stirred in until melted, creating a smooth and luscious sauce that envelops the pasta.
Baking to Perfection
Once the pasta is combined with the cheese sauce, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. If desired, a topping of breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter can be added for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Bake the dish in a preheated oven until the top is golden and bubbly, which typically takes about 20 to 25 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that irresistible crust.
Serving Suggestions
After baking, allow the mac and cheese to cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, balancing the richness of the cheese.
For a touch of freshness, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of herbs. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of flavor that complements the creamy dish.
Nutrition and Enjoyment
This baked mac and cheese offers a satisfying meal with approximately 450 calories per serving. With a good balance of protein and carbohydrates, it serves as a hearty main dish.
Whether enjoyed on a cozy night in or at a festive gathering, this mac and cheese is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it a timeless classic in American cuisine.
Delicious Baked Three-Cheese Mac and Cheese
This mac and cheese features a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses, creating a creamy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly. The dish takes about 45 minutes to prepare and bake, serving 6 people.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni or pasta of choice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs for topping (optional)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk, cooking until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring until well coated.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Add Topping: If using, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle evenly over the mac and cheese.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious baked three-cheese mac and cheese!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 22g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 45g