Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese

The Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese is a dish that evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. As the aroma of melted cheese fills the air, it’s hard not to feel a wave of comfort wash over you. This recipe has been a staple in my home, where it’s not just a meal, but a celebration of food that brings loved ones together. I remember the first time I made it for friends; I was nervous, but as they took their first bite, their faces lit up with joy. I knew then that I had created something special. The creamy texture paired with the rich flavors of three different cheeses makes this a dish that’s hard to resist. Whether it’s a chilly winter night or a festive occasion, the Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese is always a hit. It’s not just about the food; it’s about the warmth and laughter that fills your home when you share this dish with others.

Main Ingredients for Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese

The soul of the Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese lies in its ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the ultimate comfort dish. The rich and creamy base is crafted from a blend of cheeses, ensuring a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. The combination of elbow macaroni, seasoned to perfection, serves as the ideal vessel for the cheeses, while the breadcrumbs add the perfect crunch. Together, these ingredients harmonize to create a dish that is not just filling, but truly satisfying.

• Unsalted Butter – 8 ounces: Essential for creating a luscious cheese sauce, it adds richness and flavor.
• White Bread – 6 slices: Torn into pieces, this creates a crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.
• Milk – 5 1/2 cups: The base of the cheese sauce, it provides the necessary liquid for a smooth consistency.
• All-Purpose Flour – 1/2 cup: Used to thicken the cheese sauce, giving it a wonderful, creamy texture.
• Salt – 2 teaspoons: Enhances all the flavors in the dish, making each bite delicious.
• Freshly Grated Nutmeg – 1/4 teaspoon: Adds a hint of warmth and depth to the cheese sauce.
• Ground Black Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon: Provides a little kick, balancing the richness of the cheese.
• Cayenne Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon: Just a touch of spice to elevate the flavors.
• Shredded Sharp White Cheddar Cheese – 4 1/2 cups: The star of the show, it melts beautifully and adds a robust flavor.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – 2 cups: This classic cheese is creamy and offers a lovely color and taste.
• Grated Pecorino Romano or Gruyere Cheese – 5 ounces: Adds a unique flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• Elbow Macaroni – 1 pound: The perfect pasta shape for holding onto the cheese sauce.

How to Prepare Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese

Making the Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese is a straightforward process that results in a gourmet meal. Follow these simple steps to create a dish that will impress everyone at your table. You’ll love how easy it is to blend flavors and textures into one cohesive meal.

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Start by buttering a 3-quart casserole dish, which will give your mac and cheese a lovely, rich base.
2. In a medium bowl, place your torn white bread. This will become the crunchy topping.
3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted, pour the butter into the bowl with the bread. Toss until the bread is well coated and set aside.
4. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until warm. Make sure it doesn’t boil.
5. In a high-sided skillet, melt the remaining 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. When it starts to bubble, add in the all-purpose flour. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute while whisking constantly to form a roux.
6. Slowly pour in the warm milk while continuing to whisk. This will help to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture bubbles and thickens, which should take several minutes.
7. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the salt, freshly grated nutmeg, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, along with the shredded sharp white cheddar cheese and either Pecorino Romano or Gruyere. Mix until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
8. In a large saucepan, bring water to a boil and add the elbow macaroni. Cook it for 2 to 3 minutes less than stated on the package to ensure the pasta is al dente.
9. Once cooked, drain the macaroni in a colander and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
10. Stir the drained macaroni into the cheese sauce until well combined. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
11. Top the mixture with the reserved bread crumbs and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese, Gruyere, or Pecorino Romano over the top.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before serving hot.

Helpful Notes about Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese

Every cook knows that tips can make or break a dish. Here are some helpful notes to ensure your Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese comes out perfectly every time.

• Storage: After the dish cools, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
• Freezing: You can freeze the Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese before baking. Just cover tightly and store for up to three months. Bake directly from the freezer; it may take longer to cook.
• Pairing: This mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Customizing: Feel free to add cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Serving: Serve the dish hot, straight from the oven, for the best texture and flavor experience.
• Making Ahead: You can prepare the cheese sauce and cook the macaroni a day in advance, then assemble and bake before serving.

How to Serve Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese

• As a Main Course: Serve this dish as a hearty main course, perfect for dinner gatherings or family meals.
• With Side Dishes: Pair it with a fresh salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal.
• Occasion: Ideal for cozy family dinners, holiday celebrations, or as a comforting dish on chilly evenings.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container; it’s just as delicious the next day!
• Garnishing: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
• Temperature: Always serve hot for the best flavor and texture; reheating gently will help maintain quality.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese is truly a dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it an unforgettable meal that you’ll want to share with family and friends. I encourage you to try this recipe and experience the magic for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!

Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese

The ultimate comfort food, Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese combines creamy cheeses and tender pasta for a dish that's rich and satisfying. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is a must-try for cheese lovers. Make it tonight for an easy weeknight dinner that everyone will enjoy!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 10 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 500

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 8 ounces Unsalted Butter
• 6 slices White Bread crusts removed, torn into 1/4- to 1/2-inch
• 5.5 cups Milk
• 0.5 cup All-Purpose Flour
• 2 teaspoons Salt
• 0.25 teaspoons Freshly Grated Nutmeg
• 0.25 teaspoons Ground Black Pepper
• 0.25 teaspoons Cayenne Pepper
• 4.5 cups Shredded Sharp White Cheddar Cheese about 18 ounces
• 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese about 8 ounces
• 5 ounces Grated Pecorino Romano or Gruyere Cheese
• 1 pound Elbow Macaroni

Equipment

• Skillet
• Oven
• Large Pot
• Grater
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Frying Pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Heat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 3-quart casserole dish; set aside.
2. Place white bread in a medium bowl.
3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Pour butter into the bowl with the bread, and toss.
4. Set breadcrumbs aside.
5. In a medium saucepan set over medium heat, heat milk.
6. Melt remaining 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a high-sided skillet over medium heat. When butter bubbles, add all-purpose flour. Cook, whisking, for 1 minute.
7. While whisking, slowly pour in hot milk. Continue cooking, whisking constantly, until the mixture bubbles and becomes thick.
8. Remove pan from heat. Stir in salt, freshly grated nutmeg, ground black pepper, cayenne pepper, 3 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, and 1 1/2 cups of Gruyere or 1 cup of Pecorino Romano; set cheese sauce aside.
9. Fill a large saucepan with water; bring to a boil. Add elbow macaroni; cook 2 to 3 minutes less than manufacturer’s directions, until the outside of pasta is cooked and the inside is underdone.
10. Transfer macaroni to a colander, rinse under cold running water, and drain well.
11. Stir macaroni into the reserved cheese sauce. Pour mixture into prepared dish.
12. Sprinkle remaining 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of Gruyere or 1/4 cup of Pecorino Romano, and breadcrumbs over top.
13. Bake until browned on top, about 30 minutes. Transfer dish to a wire rack to cool for 5 minutes; serve hot.

Notes

• Tip 1: After the dish cools, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for best results.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the Three Cheese Macaroni and Cheese before baking. Just cover tightly and store for up to three months. Bake directly from the freezer; it may take longer to cook.
• Tip 3: This mac and cheese pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Tip 4: Feel free to add cooked vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Tip 5: Serve the dish hot, straight from the oven, for the best texture and flavor experience.

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Meet Fiona Lewis

I love cooking with the seasons and keeping things rustic and real. I believe the best meals are the ones shared with friends and family. I had so much fun creating this recipe, and I can't wait to hear what you think of it!