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Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) Recipe

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 23 reviews

A classic comfort food, Baked Three Cheese Macaroni combines tender elbow macaroni with a rich, creamy blend of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, topped with a crispy paprika-seasoned breadcrumb crust. This dish is perfect for a hearty family meal or special gatherings, delivering gooey, cheesy goodness with every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni

Cheese Sauce

  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 4 ounces Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Topping

  • 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish well to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving. A glass or ceramic dish is ideal for even heat distribution during baking.
  2. Cook the Macaroni to Al Dente: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 1-2 minutes less than the package instructions recommend to keep the pasta firm. Drain well; do not rinse, so the starch helps the sauce cling to the noodles.
  3. Make the Roux for the Cheese Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Add the flour and whisk vigorously for 1-2 minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant and pale golden, removing the raw flour taste and creating a smooth base for the sauce.
  4. Gradually Add Milk and Heavy Cream: Slowly whisk in the whole milk, about 1 cup at a time, ensuring a smooth mixture before adding more. Once combined, whisk in the heavy cream. Continue stirring as the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Simmer and Thicken the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Adjust consistency with additional milk if needed.
  6. Incorporate the Cheese – Low and Slow: Remove the pan from heat. Gradually add the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring constantly until each addition melts smoothly into the sauce without becoming grainy.
  7. Season the Cheese Sauce: Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Taste and adjust seasonings to enhance the cheese flavors and add a warm aromatic hint from the nutmeg.
  8. Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce: Combine the drained macaroni with the cheese sauce, stirring gently but thoroughly to coat each piece evenly and prevent clumps.
  9. Transfer to Baking Dish and Top: Pour the cheesy macaroni mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly. Mix breadcrumbs with paprika (if using) and sprinkle over the top for a flavorful, crunchy crust.
  10. Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly around the edges and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crisp. The sauce should be melty and gooey.
  11. Rest Before Serving: Let the baked macaroni and cheese rest for 5-10 minutes after removing from the oven to allow the sauce to set and prevent it from being too runny when served.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and creaminess.
  • Do not overcook the pasta during boiling; it will finish cooking in the oven.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Adding nutmeg enhances the depth of flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
  • Breadcrumb topping adds a delicious crunchy texture – panko breadcrumbs work best.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cheese sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked macaroni and cheese, three cheese mac and cheese, creamy macaroni, cheesy pasta bake, comfort food, baked pasta recipe

Find it online: https://cheflenacooks.com/start-by-preheating-your-oven-to-375f-190c-recipe/