Description
This comforting Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni combines creamy cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses with tender elbow macaroni, baked to golden perfection with an optional crunchy breadcrumb topping. Perfect as a hearty main dish or a satisfying side.
Ingredients
Scale
Macaroni
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
Cheese 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
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Macaroni: Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Make the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour continuously for 1 to 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and form a smooth roux.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk into the roux, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens to a creamy consistency. Remove from heat and stir in the grated cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and smooth. Season the cheese sauce with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, mixing well to combine.
- Combine the Macaroni and Sauce: Toss the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Transfer and Bake: Pour the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. If desired, sprinkle the optional breadcrumbs evenly on top to add a crispy texture.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the baking dish is bubbling hot. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- You can add cooked bacon or sautéed vegetables for added flavor and texture.
- Use whole milk for a richer sauce or low-fat milk for a lighter version.
- Make sure to stir the roux constantly to prevent burning and lumps.
- The breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a nice crunch to the dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
