Description
Creamy, golden, and absolutely irresistible, this Three-Cheese Baked Macaroni is the ultimate comfort food. Made with a blend of sharp cheddar, melty mozzarella, and nutty gruyère, it delivers that gooey, stretchy, crispy-on-top experience we all crave. Whether you’re searching for quick dinner ideas, an easy recipe for picky eaters, or indulgent food ideas for the weekend, this baked macaroni is a satisfying choice for everyone. Perfect for holidays, weeknight meals, or make-ahead meal prep, this easy dinner will be on your repeat list in no time.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni (or rigatoni/penne)
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup gruyère cheese, shredded
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups whole milk
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add macaroni and cook until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until golden.
3. Slowly add the milk, whisking constantly. Cook until thickened and smooth, about 4–5 minutes.
4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in cheddar, mozzarella, and gruyère cheeses gradually until fully melted. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine the cooked pasta with the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
6. Pour the mixture into a buttered baking dish. Top with extra cheese and sprinkle with paprika if desired.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbling. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Freshly grated cheese melts better and creates a smoother sauce—skip the bagged pre-shredded stuff.
Don’t overbake—watch for golden edges and bubbling cheese as your signal to pull it out.
To reheat leftovers, add a splash of milk and warm gently for the creamiest texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Keywords: easy dinner, baked macaroni, three cheese mac, comfort food, pasta recipe