Description
Creamy baked three cheese mac and cheese with cheddar, Parmesan, and Romano. A rich, comforting side dish perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 pound elbow macaroni
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Romano cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the macaroni until just al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute until lightly golden and smooth.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar, Parmesan, and Romano cheese. Stir until fully melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle paprika evenly over the top.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly.
Notes
- For extra browning, place under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes at the end of baking while watching closely.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American