Mac and Cheese – a dish that tugs at the heartstrings and brings smiles to the dinner table. There’s something about a creamy, cheesy bowl of macaroni and cheese that feels like a hug in food form. Whether it’s an everyday dinner or a special occasion like Thanksgiving, this 3 cheese mac and cheese recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Packed with mozzarella, cheddar, and colby jack cheeses, this dish delivers the perfect balance of creamy richness and flavor. Plus, the crispy panko breadcrumb topping makes it even more irresistible. Ready to whip up this cheesy delight? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Table of Contents
Recipe Card
Recipe Name: 3 Cheese Mac and Cheese
Description: This 3 cheese mac and cheese is a rich, creamy, and cheesy comfort food that’s perfect as a side dish for both casual meals and festive celebrations. Made with a trio of mozzarella, cheddar, and colby jack cheeses, this dish is finished with a crispy panko breadcrumb topping for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories: 684 kcal
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow pasta (or small shells, cavatappi, or farfalle)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 cups evaporated milk
- 1 cup chicken stock
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 8 oz mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 8 oz colby jack cheese (shredded)
- Salt to taste
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by filling a large pot with water and adding a good pinch of salt. Then, heat it until it comes to a rolling boil. Add the elbow pasta and cook for 7 minutes or until al dente. Drain the pasta, return it to the pot, and toss with 2 tablespoons of butter to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a large skillet or pan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 3-4 minutes until it turns a light brown color. Gradually add in the evaporated milk, followed by the chicken stock. Stir until the mixture comes to a simmer.
- Add the Cheese: Lower the heat and add the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and colby jack cheeses to the pan. Keep stirring continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is nice and smooth.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the cheese sauce and gently toss until it’s evenly coated. Taste the mixture and add salt as needed.
- Top with Panko and Bake: Transfer the mac and cheese to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved shredded cheese and panko breadcrumbs on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
- You can substitute other pasta types such as small shells or cavatappi.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations like Gruyere, Gouda, or Muenster for a unique flavor.
- For a stovetop-only version, skip the baking step and serve the 3 cheese mac and cheese directly from the pan.
- Shred your cheese for the best melt. Pre-shredded cheese usually has anti-caking agents added, which can change the texture.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1 cup)
- Calories: 684 kcal
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 838mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0.3g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 99mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.
- Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of three different cheeses creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats each pasta perfectly.
- Versatile: Whether you bake it for a golden, crispy topping or serve it fresh from the stovetop, this 3 cheese mac and cheese will be a hit at any meal.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love mac and cheese, and this 3 cheese mac and cheese will be no exception. It’s simple, flavorful, and satisfying.
- Great for Entertaining: Whether for a casual meal or a holiday gathering, this 3 cheese mac and cheese can easily be made in larger quantities to feed a crowd.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Pasta: Elbow macaroni is the classic choice for 3 cheese mac and cheese, but you can easily swap it with other small pasta shapes like small shells, cavatappi, or farfalle. These shapes hold the cheese sauce well and add a fun twist to the dish.
- Cheeses: The trio of mozzarella, cheddar, and colby jack creates a perfect blend of creamy, tangy, and sharp flavors in your 3 cheese mac and cheese. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use cheeses like Gruyere, Gouda, or Fontina for a more sophisticated flavor profile.
- Evaporated Milk: Evaporated milk is ideal for 3 cheese mac and cheese because it has a concentrated flavor that enhances the creaminess of the sauce. You can substitute with whole milk or heavy cream if preferred, but evaporated milk gives the best result.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, giving your 3 cheese mac and cheese a satisfying crunch on top. If you don’t have panko, you can use regular breadcrumbs or skip the topping altogether for a creamy, stovetop version.
How to Make 3 Cheese Mac and Cheese (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by heating a large pot of water with a good amount of salt until it reaches a rolling boil. Add your elbow pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s just al dente (about 7 minutes). Once done, drain the pasta and immediately toss it with 2 tablespoons of butter to prevent it from sticking together. Set it aside to cool slightly while you prepare the cheese sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a large skillet or pan, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Next, add the flour and whisk constantly until the mixture becomes a light golden brown. This process is known as making a roux, which acts as the base for your 3 cheese mac and cheese sauce. Once the roux is ready, gradually whisk in the evaporated milk and chicken stock to create a smooth mixture. Let it come to a gentle simmer.
Step 3: Add the Cheese
Reduce the heat to low and slowly add the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and colby jack cheeses. Keep stirring continuously to make sure the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce. Once the sauce is fully melted and creamy, taste it and add salt and pepper as desired.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Cheese Sauce
Add your cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring to coat every piece with the creamy cheese sauce. If needed, adjust the seasoning to your preference by adding a pinch more salt or pepper.
Step 5: Bake and Serve
Transfer the cheesy pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the reserved shredded cheese and panko breadcrumbs evenly on top. Place the dish in a preheated 350°F oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. For an extra crispy finish, turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes of baking.
Expert Tips for Success
- Slightly Undercooked Pasta: When cooking the pasta, cook it for about 1 minute less than the package directions suggest. The pasta will continue cooking as it bakes, absorbing the cheese sauce and helping it retain its creamy texture.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smoother cheese sauce, use room-temperature milk and stock. Cold liquids can cause the cheese to seize up and become clumpy.
- Don’t Skip the Butter: The butter is not just for flavor – it helps prevent the pasta from absorbing too much of the sauce, keeping the 3 cheese mac and cheese creamy and rich.
Variations and Customizations
- Vegetarian: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version of 3 cheese mac and cheese, skip the chicken stock and use vegetable broth instead. You can also add in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for added flavor and nutrition.
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, you can mix in some diced cooked chicken or even crab meat for a touch of luxury.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a little heat. You can also stir in some diced jalapeños for extra flavor.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
If you have leftovers of your 3 cheese mac and cheese, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, transfer the mac and cheese to an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave by stirring every 30 seconds. If the dish looks dry, add a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This 3 cheese mac and cheese pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables, a fresh green salad, or a slice of garlic bread. You can also serve it as a side to roasted chicken or grilled steaks. Its creamy texture and cheesy flavor complement a wide variety of main dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are some great cheese combinations for mac and cheese?
A combination of mozzarella, cheddar, and colby jack cheeses works well for mac and cheese. You can also try Gruyere, Gouda, Fontina, Muenster, and other cheeses like cream cheese or Parmesan for different flavors.
Can I make mac and cheese ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mac and cheese up to the point of baking, then cover it and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just bake it following the instructions when you’re ready to serve.
Related Recipes
If you loved this creamy, cheesy 3 cheese mac and cheese, here are a few more irresistible recipes you might want to try:
- Cheddar Mac and Cheese: For those who crave a bold, cheesy flavor, this cheddar mac and cheese offers a rich and creamy sauce made with sharp cheddar cheese. It’s a classic that delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite.
- Classic Mac and Cheese with a Creamy Sauce: If you’re a fan of the timeless version, this classic mac and cheese offers a velvety, smooth cheese sauce that perfectly coats every piece of pasta. It’s a straightforward but delightful dish that always remains a favorite.
- Spicy Jalapeño Mac and Cheese: Turn up the heat with this spicy jalapeño mac and cheese! The creamy, cheesy goodness is balanced with a zesty kick from fresh jalapeños, creating a bold flavor profile that’s perfect for spice lovers.
Conclusion
This 3 cheese mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying, it’s the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether as a side or the main attraction, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Try it out today and enjoy a deliciously cheesy meal that everyone will love!