three cheese mac and cheese recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best three cheese mac and cheese recipe

I have been making mac and cheese for my family for years, and this three cheese version is our absolute favorite. It is creamy, cheesy, and has so much more flavor than the boxed kind. My kids gobble it up every time, and I love that I can sneak in some extra protein and calcium with the milk and cheeses. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a holiday side dish. It is comforting and filling, and it always gets compliments from guests. Plus, using three different cheeses gives it a rich, complex taste that you just cannot get from one cheese alone. It is a simple dish that feels special, and I am happy to share it with you.

Three Cheese Mac and Cheese

4.6 from 640 votes

A creamy and flavorful macaroni and cheese made with cheddar, gruyere, and parmesan. This dish is perfect for a comforting family dinner or a holiday side.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

1 pound elbow macaroni
1 tablespoon salt for pasta water

For the Cheese Sauce

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/4 cup all purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded gruyere cheese
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

For the Topping

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.
2Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the 4 tablespoons of butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
5Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the salt, pepper, garlic powder, nutmeg, cheddar cheese, gruyere cheese, and parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
6Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir to coat everything evenly.
7Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
8In a small bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the macaroni and cheese.
9Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Colander
Medium saucepan
Whisk
9×13 inch baking dish
Mixing bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 25g💛Saturated Fat: 15g❤️Cholesterol: 80mg🧂Sodium: 700mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

You can use any combination of cheeses you like. For a sharper flavor, use extra sharp cheddar. Make sure to shred your own cheese from a block as pre shredded cheese has anti caking agents that can affect the sauce.

Watch Video Of How Three Cheese Mac and Cheese Works

This three cheese mac and cheese is a staple in my home. It is creamy, cheesy, and always a hit at family gatherings or just a regular Tuesday night dinner. I hope you and your family enjoy it as much as we do.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Three Cheese Mac and Cheese

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can. Any short pasta shape works well. Try shells, rotini, or cavatappi. Just cook it to al dente.

2. Can I make this mac and cheese ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the dish but do not bake it. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add 10 minutes to the baking time.

3. Can I freeze this three cheese mac and cheese?

Yes. Bake it first, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

4. What if I dont have gruyere cheese?

You can substitute with Swiss cheese or fontina. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten free?

Yes. Use gluten free pasta and substitute the all purpose flour with a gluten free all purpose flour blend. Make sure your breadcrumbs are also gluten free.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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