Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
ultra-creamy baked mac and cheese - featured image

Ultra-Creamy Baked Mac and Cheese: Best 3 Cheese Recipe

  • Author: Olivia
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Description

An ultra-creamy, baked mac and cheese recipe featuring a rich roux-based sauce and a perfect blend of sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses. This comfort food is easier to make than boxed versions and delivers a gourmet taste.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • 2 tablespoons salt (for pasta water)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 cup Gruyère cheese, freshly grated
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Grate all cheeses (cheddar, Gruyère, Parmesan) before starting to ensure smooth melting.
  3. Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook 1 minute less than package directions for al dente. Drain and rinse briefly with warm water; toss with a little oil to prevent sticking.
  4. In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until light golden and nutty.
  5. Reduce heat to medium-low. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, adding small amounts at a time to prevent lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic powder and mustard powder.
  6. Remove the pan from the heat. Gradually add the grated cheeses, stirring until each addition is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy.
  7. Pour the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce and stir gently to coat every noodle.
  8. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
  10. Let the mac and cheese rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.

Notes

Grate your own cheese to avoid anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Do not overcook the pasta as it will continue to cook in the oven. Remove the pan from heat before adding cheese to prevent a grainy sauce. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheated with a splash of milk.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 580
  • Sodium: 650
  • Fat: 28
  • Saturated Fat: 16
  • Carbohydrates: 55
  • Protein: 22

Keywords: mac and cheese, baked mac and cheese, three cheese recipe, comfort food, creamy mac and cheese, cheddar, Gruyère, Parmesan, easy dinner, family favorite

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://tableanddinner.com/ultra-creamy-baked-mac-and-cheese-best-3-cheese-recipe/