Save This Classic Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni is everything you crave in comfort food creamy sauce gooey pasta and golden cheesy crust all baked together to perfection. Whenever I make this my kitchen fills with warmth and anticipation and this dish has turned many ordinary evenings into unforgettable family dinners.
The first time I pulled this cheesy macaroni from the oven my kids literally cheered. Now it is our go to for family gatherings and potlucks because there are never any leftovers.
Ingredients
- Elbow macaroni pasta: It holds the sauce beautifully and bakes evenly. Look for bronze cut or classic brands for extra sauce cling
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds classic tang and bold flavor Use block cheese and grate it fresh for better melt
- Gruyere cheese: Brings nutty creaminess to the mix Gruyere melts smoothly adding depth Choose a firm piece with rich color
- Mozzarella cheese: Ensures gooey texture and long cheese pulls Opt for whole milk mozzarella for the richest bite
- Butter: Needed for both roux and the topping Select unsalted to control saltiness
- All purpose flour: Thickens the sauce and makes it velvety Try to use unbleached flour for best texture
- Whole milk: Results in the creamiest base for your cheese sauce Supports even melting without graininess
- Ground mustard: This subtle touch brightens everything up A little goes a long way
- Breadcrumbs: Panko or fresh for ultimate crunch Toast them lightly for a golden finish
- Salt and black pepper: Enhance every cheesy note Choose fresh cracked pepper and kosher or sea salt
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta:
- Cook macaroni in a large pot of salted boiling water until just barely al dente about 1 minute less than package directions This ensures it will not overcook during baking Drain and set aside but do not rinse
- Make the Roux:
- Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat Once foamy add flour and whisk constantly for 2 to 3 minutes until the mixture turns a pale golden color and loses the raw flour smell
- Create the Cheese Sauce:
- While whisking slowly pour in whole milk Continue stirring to prevent lumps Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon about 4 to 6 minutes Stir in ground mustard salt and pepper
- Melt the Cheeses:
- Reduce heat to low Add grated cheddar gruyere and mozzarella a handful at a time stirring until each addition melts before adding more The sauce should be smooth and stretchy Taste and adjust seasoning if needed
- Combine and Transfer:
- Add drained macaroni into the cheese sauce and fold together so every piece is coated Scrape the mixture into a buttered baking dish and spread evenly
- Prepare and Add the Topping:
- In a small bowl toss breadcrumbs with melted butter Sprinkle the buttery crumbs evenly over the macaroni mixture pressing gently to adhere
- Bake Until Golden:
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 to 35 minutes until topping is crisp and the edges are bubbling Let it rest 10 minutes before serving for clean slices
Save It reminds me of Sunday lunches at my grandma's house where she never skimped on the cheese She said that the best bites always had a little bit of crust and a whole lotta cheese.
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep beautifully for up to four days in the fridge Store in a tightly sealed container and reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess Avoid microwaving in intervals longer than 30 seconds as that can dry out the cheese crust layer
Ingredient Substitutions
Try swapping gruyere for fontina or Swiss for a milder flavor Or use Monterey Jack instead of mozzarella if you prefer Stretch the recipe by mixing in sautéed mushrooms spinach or diced ham to change things up
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad and tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness Or serve it alongside roasted chicken or barbecue for a true comfort meal It is also perfect as the centerpiece of a holiday spread just double the recipe and use a deep roasting pan
Save This recipe is a nod to every tradition my family has ever celebrated with a bubbly cheesy casserole at the table. Take a photo before serving because golden cheese only lasts a few moments before everyone dives in.
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → What cheeses work best for a three-cheese macaroni?
A blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and parmesan delivers creaminess, stretch, and sharp flavors.
- → How do I achieve a golden crust?
Top the dish with extra cheese and bake until bubbling and gently browned for a crisp finish.
- → Can I add breadcrumbs for texture?
Sprinkle buttery breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crunchy, savory layer.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for convenience and freshness.
- → Can additional spices enhance the flavor?
Try adding ground mustard or a dash of paprika for extra warmth and depth in the sauce.