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Mac and 3 Cheese

How to Make Mac and 3 Cheese

This ultimate mac and 3 cheese recipe is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy indulgence and comforting texture. Made with sharp cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser with plenty of room for customization—ideal for weeknights or holidays.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American Comfort Food
Servings 4 people
Calories 600 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • 9×13 baking dish
  • Colander

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta:

  • 1 pound elbow macaroni or substitute with cavatappi or penne

For the Cheese Sauce:

  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cups whole milk room temperature
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup unsalted butter 1 stick
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour

Seasonings:

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Optional Topping:

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted

Preparation Tips:

  • Always shred cheese from blocks for the best melt and texture.
  • Let dairy come to room temperature before mixing into the roux to prevent curdling.

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Cook pasta: Boil salted water, cook macaroni 1–2 minutes less than package directions. Drain and set aside.
  • Make roux: Melt butter in a saucepan. Add flour and whisk continuously for 2 minutes.
  • Add milk & cream: Slowly whisk in milk and cream. Simmer until thickened.
  • Melt cheeses: Reduce heat, stir in cheddar, Gruyère, and Parmesan gradually until smooth.
  • Season the sauce: Add mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  • Combine: Stir cooked pasta into cheese sauce.
  • Assemble dish: Grease a 9×13 baking dish and pour in the mac and cheese mixture.
  • Add topping (optional): Combine panko and melted butter. Sprinkle over the top.
  • Bake: Bake 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  • Rest and serve: Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a creamier sauce, use freshly shredded cheeses and avoid pre-shredded blends.
  • Add-ins like cooked bacon, chicken, or roasted veggies can elevate this dish.
  • Make-ahead: Prepare up to baking, refrigerate, then bake before serving.