Description
This Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni is the ultimate comfort food—gooey, creamy, and bubbling with flavor. Featuring sharp cheddar, stretchy mozzarella, and savory Parmesan, it’s a rich and satisfying baked pasta dish. Perfect for a quick dinner, potluck side, or cozy night in. If you’re looking for dinner ideas, a quick family meal, or a hearty food idea that never fails, this easy recipe is a must-try.
Ingredients
16 oz elbow macaroni
4 tbsp unsalted butter
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
1 cup Parmesan cheese shredded
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the macaroni just until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add flour and whisk constantly for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk, making sure it stays smooth. Stir until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add salt, pepper, and paprika. Remove from heat and stir in all three cheeses until melted and smooth.
6. Combine the cheese sauce with the macaroni and mix well to coat evenly.
7. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle additional cheese on top if desired.
8. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top. For a deeper crust, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully.
9. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest melt and best flavor.
Undercook your pasta slightly so it doesn’t get mushy after baking.
Taste your cheese sauce before combining to adjust seasoning if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: three cheese macaroni, baked mac and cheese, comfort food, easy dinner, food ideas, dinner ideas, quick recipe