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Best Three Cheese Mac N Cheese

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Best Three Cheese Mac N Cheese combines tender pasta with a rich, velvety sauce made from cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Creamy, cheesy, and comforting, it’s the perfect dish for family dinners, holidays, or potlucks.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni
  • Water for boiling
  • 1 tablespoon salt
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1½ cups mozzarella cheese, freshly shredded
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  4. Cook the macaroni until just al dente according to package directions.
  5. Drain and set aside.
  6. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  7. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to create a roux.
  8. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream until smooth.
  9. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens slightly.
  10. Add the salt, black pepper, and paprika.
  11. Reduce the heat to low.
  12. Stir in the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses a little at a time until fully melted and smooth.
  13. Add the cooked macaroni and stir until evenly coated.
  14. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
  15. Combine the breadcrumbs, melted butter, and Parmesan cheese if using the topping.
  16. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the macaroni.
  17. Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
  18. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Freshly shredded cheese melts more smoothly than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Avoid overheating the cheese sauce to prevent a grainy texture.
  • For a stovetop version, skip the baking step and serve immediately.
  • Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
  • Pairs well with salads, roasted vegetables, barbecue, or fried chicken.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/best-three-cheese-mac-n-cheese/