⏱ 40 min
Comfort
Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
Velvety smooth tomato soup with fire-roasted tomatoes, fresh basil, and crusty bread.
Humble pantry staples can create an extraordinary Creamy Baked Three Cheese Macaroni & Cheese Recipe when treated with proper heat and technique. This recipe celebrates elbow macaroni pasta, sharp yellow cheddar cheese, freshly shredded and swiss gruyère cheese, freshly shredded in under 45 min, providing a reliable, flavor-packed dish you will want to make again and again.
Ingredients
8 servings
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1
Boil Elbow Macaroni
Boil elbow macaroni in salted water for **6 minutes** (al dente). Drain pasta.
2
Make Roux Cheese Sauce
Melt butter in a pot; whisk in flour for **2 minutes**. Slowly whisk in milk and heavy cream; **simmer for 5 minutes** until thick. Remove from heat; whisk in Dijon, garlic powder, paprika, 1.5 cups cheddar, 1 cup Gruyère, and 1 cup mozzarella.
3
Toss Pasta & Layer Pan
Fold cooked macaroni into cheese sauce. Transfer to a 9x13 baking dish. Top with remaining cheese blend and Panko breadcrumbs.
4
Bake to Bubbly Gold
**Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 22 to 25 minutes** until cheese is bubbling hot and breadcrumbs are golden. Cool 5 minutes before serving.
Chef Amara’s Kitchen Secrets & Pro Tips
- Shred cheese from blocks for smooth, silky cheese sauce.
- Boil pasta for only 6 minutes so it stays firm while baking in cheese sauce.
1. Spoon and Level Your Flour: Never scoop flour directly from the canister with your measuring cup, which packs excess volume by up to 25%. Fluff the flour with a fork, spoon it into the cup, and level the top with a knife. 2. Protect Minced Garlic from Burning: Garlic cooks and turns fragrant in just 30 to 45 seconds. Add it toward the end of sautéing onions or aromatics so it perfumes the dish without acquiring a bitter edge. 3. Chef's Kitchen Secret: Shred cheese from blocks for smooth, silky cheese sauce.
Chef’s Cooking Guide & FAQs
Troubleshooting & Quick Fixes
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Troubleshooting & Quick Fixes
- What if the Sauce for Creamy Baked Three Cheese Macaroni & Cheese Recipe Separates or Feels Greasy?: If a dairy or emulsion sauce breaks, immediately take the pan off direct heat. Vigorously whisk in a tablespoon of hot water, broth, or cream until the velvety sheen re-emulsifies.
- How to Rescue a Dish That Tastes Overly Salty?: Dilute with additional unsalted liquid (broth, cream, or water), or splash in a small touch of acid like fresh lemon juice or vinegar to soften sharp salinity.
Storage, Freezing & Reheating Guidelines
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Storage, Freezing & Reheating Guidelines
Store leftovers in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a preheated 350°F oven or covered skillet over medium-low heat until steaming hot throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, this dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance, kept covered in the refrigerator, and baked or cooked when ready to serve.
Q: Can I substitute common pantry ingredients? A: Yes, this recipe is forgiving. Check our substitution notes in the ingredient card for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan alternatives.
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Kitchen Notes & Discussion
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