Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni

Instructions:

1. Cook the Macaroni:

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni and cook according to the package directions, about 7-8 minutes, until al dente. Be sure not to overcook the pasta since it will continue cooking in the oven. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. If you’d like, you can toss the pasta with a little olive oil to prevent it from sticking.

2. Make the Cheese Sauce:

In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Be sure to whisk constantly to avoid any lumps.

Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously to create a smooth mixture. Continue to cook for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens and starts to simmer. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.

Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Stir until the cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

3. Combine the Pasta and Cheese Sauce:

Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, stirring gently to ensure every piece of pasta is coated with the cheesy goodness. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if necessary.

4. Prepare the Topping:

In a small bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated and the mixture is crumbly.

5. Assemble and Bake:

Transfer the cheesy macaroni mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumb topping evenly over the top of the macaroni and cheese. This will create a crispy, golden crust once baked.

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. If you like an extra crispy top, you can broil it for 2–3 minutes at the end of baking, but be sure to keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Once the mac and cheese is golden and bubbling, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the cheese to set, making it easier to serve in nice, cheesy portions.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Three-Cheese Flavor Explosion: The blend of sharp cheddar, gooey mozzarella, and nutty Parmesan creates a rich, flavorful sauce that coats every bite of pasta. The combination of these three cheeses gives the dish a perfect balance of creaminess and tang.
• Comforting and Hearty: This baked macaroni is the ultimate comfort food. The creamy cheese sauce envelops the pasta in warmth, and the crispy breadcrumb topping adds texture and flavor, making every bite a delight.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re serving it to a crowd at a family gathering, a holiday dinner, or a potluck, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s a classic everyone loves, and the extra cheese just makes it even better.
• Customizable: You can make this recipe your own by adding extras like cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or even a handful of sautéed spinach for a touch of greenery. For a little kick, try mixing in some chili flakes or hot sauce.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and straightforward, with ingredients that are easy to find and a cooking method that’s quick and efficient. It’s the perfect dish for both beginners and seasoned cooks alike.

Final Thoughts:

Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni is everything you love about macaroni and cheese, with a delicious twist. The creamy, cheesy sauce paired with the crispy, golden topping is the ultimate comfort food experience. Whether you serve it as a side dish or as a main course, this recipe is sure to be a favorite in your home. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to go back for seconds (and maybe even thirds). Try it today, and enjoy the cheesy, creamy goodness!