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Cheesy Mac Madness

Cheesy Mac Madness

While mac and cheese is a beloved classic, this recipe addsa unique twist with its blend of three different cheeses – sharp cheddar,creamy Gruyère, and tangy Parmesan. The result is a depth of flavor that willhave you savoring every bite. Serve it alongside a crisp green salad for acomplete meal that's sure to impress.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 520 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large pot for cooking the macaroni
  • 1 colander for draining the macaroni
  • 1 medium saucepan for making the cheese sauce
  • 1 Whisk for whisking the cheese sauce
  • 1 Large baking dish (9x13 inch or similar size)
  • 1 Small bowl for tossing the breadcrumbs withmelted butter

Ingredients
  

  • 8 ounces elbow macaroni
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp ground mustard
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructionsuntil al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a saucepan, melt 3 tbsp of unsalted butter over mediumheat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  • Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously toprevent lumps from forming. Cook until the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes.
  • Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shreddedcheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
  • Season the cheese sauce with ground mustard, cayennepepper, salt, and black pepper to taste.
  • In a large baking dish, combine the cooked macaroni andcheese sauce, mixing well to coat the noodles evenly.
  • In a small bowl, toss the panko breadcrumbs with 2 tbspof melted butter until well combined.
  • Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumbs over the top of themacaroni and cheese.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top isgolden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes beforeserving.

Notes

- For a crunchier topping, you can broil the mac and cheese for 2-3 minutes after baking.
- Add cooked bacon, diced ham, or sautéed vegetables to the cheese sauce for extra flavor and texture.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 20gFiber: 2g
Keyword baked macaroni, breadcrumb topping, cheese lovers, cheesy macaroni, comfort food, creamy cheese sauce, easy dinner recipe, family-friendly meal, gourmet macaroni and cheese, indulgent pasta dish, mac and cheese recipe, side dish recipe, three cheese mac and cheese
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