Are you craving comfort food that's both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This recipe for 3 Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese is your answer. Forget the boxed stuff; this homemade version is bursting with cheesy goodness, creamy texture, and a perfectly golden-brown crust. It's the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to elevate your mac and cheese game!
Ingredients:
This recipe makes enough to serve 4-6 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for bread crumbs)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour until smooth and bubbly (this is your roux).
- Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring no lumps form. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and comes to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. This is where the magic happens!
Assemble and Bake:
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the top of the mac and cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy:
Let the mac and cheese rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly, making it easier to scoop.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Mac and Cheese:
- Use high-quality cheese: The better the cheese, the better the mac and cheese!
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape better in the cheese sauce.
- Stir frequently: Prevent sticking and ensure even cooking of the cheese sauce.
- Freshly grated cheese melts better: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent smooth melting.
Variations:
- Spicy Mac and Cheese: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
- Bacon Mac and Cheese: Crumble cooked bacon and add it to the cheese sauce before adding the pasta.
- Vegetable Mac and Cheese: Stir in cooked broccoli, cauliflower, or peas.
- Gourmet Mac and Cheese: Experiment with different cheese combinations, such as Fontina, Gouda, or even a little bit of blue cheese.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 400-450 Fat: 25-30g Protein: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This 3 Cheese Baked Mac and Cheese recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, easy to follow, and perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave a comforting and delicious meal. It’s a delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to potlucks. Give it a try, and you'll quickly understand why it's one of the best mac and cheese recipes around! Enjoy!