A Comfort Food Classic That Never Disappoints
Few dishes rival the creamy, cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese. With its melty texture and rich flavors, the Ultimate Three Cheese Macaroni takes this beloved comfort food to the next level. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or bringing a dish to a potluck, this recipe guarantees smiles and second helpings. Combining gruyere, extra sharp white cheddar, and whole milk mozzarella, this mac and cheese delivers a perfect harmony of flavor and texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Creamy: The blend of three cheeses and heavy cream creates a luxurious sauce.
- Easy to Make: Simple steps make this dish accessible even for beginner cooks.
- Customizable: Add breadcrumbs, herbs, or proteins to make it your own.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: From weeknight dinners to holiday feasts, it’s always a hit.
Ingredients for Ultimate Three Cheese Macaroni
For the Macaroni
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dried rigatoni pasta | 16 ounces (454 g) |
| Dried basil | 2 teaspoons |
| Heavy cream | 8 ounces (227 ml) |
| Gruyere cheese (shredded) | 1 1/2 cups (198 g) |
| Extra sharp white cheddar cheese (shredded) | 1 1/2 cups (170 g) |
| Whole milk mozzarella cheese (shredded) | 1 1/2 cups (168 g) |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
- Add a generous pinch of salt to the water to season the pasta as it cooks.
- Add the rigatoni and cook until al dente according to the package instructions.
- Drain the pasta immediately and set aside.
2. Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (191°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish and set it aside.
3. Make the Cheese Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried basil, heavy cream, half of each cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Stir the ingredients together with a wooden spoon until evenly mixed.
4. Combine Pasta and Cheese Mixture
- Pour the drained pasta into the bowl with the cheese mixture.
- Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently toss and coat the pasta with the mixture.
5. Assemble the Dish
- Transfer the pasta mixture to the prepared casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake the Macaroni
- Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- For a crustier top, broil for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Let It Rest and Serve
- Remove the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for 10 minutes.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Success
Use Quality Cheeses
- High-quality cheeses melt better and provide a richer flavor.
Cook Pasta Al Dente
- Slightly undercooking the pasta ensures it doesn’t become mushy when baked.
Customize the Toppings
- Add breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for a crunchy topping.
Experiment with Herbs and Spices
- Try thyme, paprika, or garlic powder to enhance the flavor.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Protein | 20g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Yes! While rigatoni works well, you can use elbow macaroni, penne, or shells.
2. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
3. What Can I Add to Make It a Complete Meal?
Consider adding cooked chicken, bacon, or vegetables like broccoli or spinach.
4. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
5. Can I Freeze This Macaroni?
Yes, freeze the assembled (but unbaked) dish for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
6. How Can I Make It Gluten-Free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Mixed green salad | Balances the richness |
| Garlic bread | Adds a complementary crunch |
| Steamed broccoli | Provides a fresh contrast |
Bring Comfort to Your Table
Ultimate Three Cheese Macaroni isn’t just a dish—it’s an experience. With its creamy texture, bold flavors, and golden baked top, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this recipe will bring warmth and satisfaction to your table.
Ready to dig into cheesy perfection? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and start cooking today!
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Ultimate Three Cheese Macaroni
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Dive into the ultimate comfort food with this Ultimate Three Cheese Macaroni. A rich and creamy blend of gruyere, extra sharp white cheddar, and mozzarella creates a luxurious sauce that perfectly coats the rigatoni pasta. Ideal for family dinners, holidays, or potlucks, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 16 ounces dried rigatoni pasta
- 2 teaspoons dried basil
- 8 ounces heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded gruyere cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded extra sharp white cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded whole milk mozzarella cheese
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add rigatoni and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
- Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (191°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine dried basil, heavy cream, half of the gruyere, cheddar, and mozzarella cheeses.
- Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix until evenly combined.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese Mixture
- Add the cooked pasta to the cheese mixture.
- Gently toss to coat all the pasta evenly.
- Assemble the Dish
- Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake the Macaroni
- Bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- For a golden crust, broil for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Notes
- Use high-quality cheeses for the best flavor and melting properties.
- Slightly undercook the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy during baking.
- Add breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter for a crunchy topping, if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
