Are you ready to elevate your comfort food game? Dive into the creamy, cheesy goodness of our Macaroni and Three Cheeses, a dish that promises to warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds! This American classic combines the rich flavors of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan, creating a decadent cheese sauce that clings to perfectly cooked macaroni. With just 45 minutes of your time, you can whip up a dish that not only serves four but also leaves everyone craving more. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this irresistible recipe that’s sure to become a staple at your dinner table!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz macaroni
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain pasta in a colander and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once butter is completely melted and starts to bubble, add flour and whisk continuously for 2-3 minutes to create a smooth roux, ensuring no lumps form.
- Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, about 5-6 minutes. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
- Reduce heat to low and add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until all cheeses are completely melted and integrated into the sauce.
- Season the cheese sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine and ensure even seasoning.
- Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, gently folding to ensure every pasta piece is evenly coated.
- Optional: For a crispy top, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top, and broil for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Let the dish rest for 3-5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly. Serve hot and enjoy your three-cheese macaroni.
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to cook the macaroni until it's al dente. This ensures that it holds its shape and texture when mixed with the cheese sauce.
- Smooth Sauce: When making your roux, whisk continuously to avoid lumps. A smooth roux is the key to a velvety cheese sauce.
- Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Adding a bit of gouda or fontina can give your mac and cheese a unique twist.
- Seasoning: Don't be shy with the salt and pepper. Taste the cheese sauce as you go to ensure it's seasoned perfectly before adding the macaroni.
- Crispy Top: For an extra layer of flavor and texture, broil the mac and cheese after transferring it to a baking dish. A sprinkle of breadcrumbs or additional cheese can take it to the next level!
- Resting Time: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving helps the sauce thicken and makes it easier to serve.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your macaroni and cheese with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 19g
Cholesterol: 95mg
