The Ultimate Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni Recipe for Creamy Perfection at Home

When it comes to comfort food, nothing hits the spot quite like a warm, cheesy baked macaroni dish. This Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni is a crowd-pleaser, combining gooey mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and savory Parmesan cheeses, all baked to golden perfection. Every bite is pure creamy goodness, perfect for a cozy family dinner or any special gathering.

Photo byRecipes By Lisa

I came across this amazing recipe on the Recipes by Lisa Facebook page, and I couldn’t wait to share it with you all. It has become a staple in my home, especially when I’m looking for something comforting yet indulgent. There’s just something magical about watching the cheese melt into a creamy sauce, coating every piece of macaroni in irresistible flavor.

Not only is this dish easy to prepare, but it also brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth to the table. Whether you're making it for a Sunday dinner or a weeknight treat, the blend of three cheeses creates a rich depth of flavor that's sure to impress.

A Little Backstory: The Love of Cheesy Goodness

Macaroni and cheese is one of those iconic dishes that transcends generations and cultures. Originally created as a simple pasta dish in Europe, macaroni and cheese gained popularity in the U.S. and has since become a beloved comfort food across the country. Whether baked or stovetop, it’s a dish that invites creativity with endless variations. This three-cheese version takes the classic to the next level, offering a creamy sauce and crispy, golden top that’s hard to resist.

How to Make Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni

Ready to dive into this cheesy masterpiece? Here's everything you need to know to make the best Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni at home.

Ingredients:

• 16 oz elbow macaroni
• 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish to ensure your cheesy creation doesn’t stick.
2. Cook the Macaroni:
   Boil the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Once cooked, drain and set it aside.
3. Prepare the Cheese Sauce:
   In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until smooth. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Add the Cheeses and Seasoning:
   Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Slowly mix in 1 ¼ cups of cheddar, ¾ cup of mozzarella, and ¾ cup of Parmesan, stirring until the cheeses melt into a smooth and creamy sauce.
5. Combine with Macaroni:
   Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing until each piece of pasta is fully coated in cheesy goodness.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish:
   Pour the cheesy macaroni into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan over the top for extra cheesy flavor.
7. Optional Crispy Crust:
   For added texture, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking. It will create a golden, crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
8. Bake to Perfection:
   Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. The smell alone will make your mouth water!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
   Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Then, dig in and enjoy the creamy, cheesy deliciousness that will surely be a hit at the table!

Pro Tips:

• Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Gruyère or fontina for a more gourmet flavor.
• Add-ins: Want to take it up a notch? Add cooked bacon bits or roasted vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower to the mix for added texture and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Simply swap the regular pasta for gluten-free elbow macaroni, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the topping.

Perfect Pairings:

Pair this delicious mac and cheese with a crisp side salad to balance out the richness, or serve it alongside grilled chicken for a hearty meal. A cold glass of iced tea or lemonade also makes a refreshing complement to this indulgent dish.

Call to Action:

Did you enjoy this creamy, cheesy macaroni dish? Let me know in the comments below and share it with friends and family! Don’t forget to follow me for more delicious recipes like this one. Thanks again to Recipes by Lisa for the inspiration!