Description
This comforting Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni recipe features tender elbow macaroni enveloped in a creamy blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Baking the dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping results in a golden, bubbly casserole perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Topping (Optional)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Macaroni. Boil the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Make the Roux. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the all-purpose flour constantly, cooking for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste and form a smooth roux.
- Make the Cheese Sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to cook until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce. Remove from heat and stir in grated cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, blending the flavors well.
- Combine the Macaroni and Sauce. Toss the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, ensuring all pasta is evenly coated with the creamy cheese mixture.
- Transfer and Bake. Pour the macaroni and cheese into the prepared baking dish. If desired, sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the surface for added texture and crunch.
- Bake. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly throughout. Remove from oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- For a richer sauce, use whole milk or a combination of milk and cream.
- Breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a nice crunch; swap with crushed crackers or skip if gluten-free.
- Feel free to add cooked veggies like broccoli or peas for added nutrition.
- Use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
